…as Oyo commissioner, others call for unity
The Ijo Oje Parapo Welfare Association, Nigeria and Overseas, has restated its readiness for the 2026 World Egungun Festival scheduled to be held in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
The association made this known during its quarterly meeting held on Friday at the Oyo State Secretariat, Ibadan, which attracted hundreds of members, including Alagbaas from different states across Nigeria and in the diaspora.
Speaking at the meeting, the Oyo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun, described the association’s Worldwide President, Prince Adeola Ayoola, as an exceptional and visionary leader with a strong sense of coordination, urging members to support and not discourage his leadership.
The commissioner noted that before the introduction of the World Egungun Festival in 2024, the Egungun cultural practice was gradually going into extinction in Oyo State, adding that the festival had helped revive it.
He disclosed that over 5,000 participants attended the maiden edition, while more than 18,000 people participated in the second edition held in 2025.
Dr. Olatunbosun also announced that the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rasheed Ladoja, is expected to attend the 2026 edition as the Father of the Day. He added that Oyo State pensioners had pledged to mobilise more than the 5,000 participants recorded last year and had already begun preparations.
He urged members of the association to remain united for continued progress, while encouraging them to actively participate in the democratic process by electing leaders who would deliver the dividends of democracy. He assured that the state government would play its part in ensuring the success of the upcoming festival.
In his remarks, the President of Ijo Oje Parapo, Prince Adeola Ayoola, commended the commissioner for providing a venue for the meeting and for his continuous support toward the growth of the association.
He appreciated the government’s role in promoting traditional practices, noting that the celebration of Isese Day in Oyo State had gained recognition during the commissioner’s tenure.
Prince Adeola also encouraged members to engage in politics, invest in education for their children, and support people within their communities.
He urged members and their families to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), stressing that voting remains the most effective way to influence leadership and governance, as politicians would not come to individuals’ homes to offer incentives.
The association president further commended the newly appointed executives for their dedication and contributions over the years, urging them to use their positions to advance the association’s goals.
Also speaking, the Asiwaju of Ijo Oje Parapo, Chief Adegoke Ayilara, advised members to stay away from violence and act as good ambassadors of the Egungun tradition, noting that any misconduct could damage the image of the association.
He emphasised the need for proper orientation in the worship and handling of Egungun, adding that members should present themselves responsibly, as public perception of the tradition depends on their conduct.
Ayilara also called for unity among members to further promote Egungun culture, while encouraging them to embrace cultural values, including giving children traditional names that reflect their heritage.
He added that the association had introduced empowerment initiatives to ensure members benefit, urging them to register and obtain membership cards to access available support.
In his address, the Chairman of Ijo Oje Parapo in Oyo State, Chief Bamidele Ojebode, described Prince Adeola as a committed and active leader, while also cautioning members against actions that could tarnish the association’s image.
Similarly, the Head of Alagba in Ibadan, Chief Ojeniyi Okugbaja, commended the leadership of the association and the support of the commissioner, urging members to uphold and preserve the Egungun tradition.
At the meeting, new executives were appointed into various positions, including Baba Isale Egbe, Public Relations Officer, Majeobaje, Kujenra, Tayese, and Assistant General Secretary.
Prince Adeola Ayoola was also honoured with an award of recognition for his exemplary leadership and significant contributions to the growth of the association.
