The ancient community of Irete Ijebu in Odogbolu Local Government Area of Ogun State was agog with celebrations as the Onirete of Irete, Oba Abdulganiu Awokoya Yesufu, marked the fifth anniversary of his coronation, commemorating five years of traditional leadership and service to his people.

The anniversary provided an opportunity for the monarch, indigenes, traditional chiefs, community leaders, and other stakeholders to reflect on the journey of the traditional institution under his reign and reaffirm their commitment to preserving the cultural heritage of Irete.

Speaking at the event, the Senator representing Ogun East Senatorial District, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, said the fifth coronation anniversary underscored the enduring relevance of traditional institutions in promoting unity, maintaining peace, and preserving the customs and traditions of the community.

Also speaking, the APC Deputy Governorship Candidate in Ogun State, Mrs Abiodun Adegunwa-Balogun, described the anniversary as a significant milestone in the reign of Oba Awokoya Yesufu, noting that the monarch occupies a central position in the community’s cultural identity and traditional affairs.

The member representing Odogbolu State Constituency, Hon. Lukman Adeleye, congratulated the monarch on his achievements since ascending the throne. He noted that Oba Awokoya Yesufu had facilitated infrastructural development in Irete, adding that the monarch had provided land for the construction of a primary school in the town.

Beyond the festivities, the celebration also featured the installation of two prominent sons of Irete into traditional chieftaincy titles. High Chief Olanrewaju Ogoji was installed as the Okanlomo of Irete, while High Chief Olayinka Yahyah was installed as the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Irete Land.

Speaking with newsmen, the Onirete of Irete, Oba Abdulganiu Awokoya Yesufu, expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for granting him the opportunity to celebrate five years on the throne. He also appreciated his chiefs and the people of Irete for their unwavering support since his ascension.

“I will continue to serve my people and facilitate more developmental projects for Irete,” the monarch said.

He highlighted some of the projects undertaken during his reign, including the construction of a modern shopping complex, a police post, and a library building.

Also speaking, the Aare Agadagudu of Irete Ijebu, High Chief Dosumu Saheed, said the fifth coronation anniversary provided an opportunity to renew calls for collective responsibility among residents and indigenes towards the development of the community.

He emphasised that community participation, peaceful coexistence, and cooperation between traditional leaders and other stakeholders remained essential to the growth and stability of Irete.

As Oba Awokoya Yesufu celebrates five years on the throne, the anniversary offers an opportunity to reflect on the responsibilities of traditional leadership and the aspirations of the people for sustained peace, progress, and prosperity.

The milestone also reinforces the significance of the Onirete stool as the custodian of the community’s cultural heritage and a symbol of its historical identity.

The fifth coronation anniversary therefore marked not only another milestone in the reign of Oba Abdulganiu Awokoya Yesufu but also a renewed commitment by the people of Irete to unity, cultural preservation, and the continued development of their community.

A major highlight of the event was a musical performance by Fuji star, King Wasiu Ayinde, who thrilled guests and residents with his captivating music, adding colour and excitement to the celebration.