There was an atmosphere of deep reverence and spiritual expectation in Ibokun, Obokun Local Government Area of Osun State, as residents ushered in the year 2026 with the conclusion of the dawn street-by-street prayer known as Adúrà Ògbon, a sacred traditional rite handed down through generations.
This Saturday's prayer program formed the grand finale of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Ibokun Chapter’s, 2026 Universal Week of Prayer.
The week-long programme commenced on Monday, 5 January 2026, at The Apostolic Church, Oke Agbede, and continued at Ogbon Egbe on Tuesday, RCM Odo Agbala on Wednesday, C.A.C. Oke-Isegun, Odo Olupo on Thursday, and St. Peter’s Anglican Church on Friday, before culminating at the open ground within the Oba’s Palace.
The grand finale, hosted by His Royal Majesty, Oba Festus Kayode Awogboro, alongside Olori Funke Awogboro, began at about 5:00 a.m. with spirited praise and worship led by a mass choir. The sermon was delivered by the CAN Ibokun Chapter Chairman, Rev. Father Paul Akinyode, on the theme “Without Repentance, There Will Be No Development.”
In his message, Rev. Akinyode took his Bible reading from Exodus 20:1–20 and drew lessons from the parable of the prodigal son. He emphasised repentance as a foundation for both personal transformation and communal progress, outlining key steps such as acknowledgment of sins, genuine remorse, returning to God, seeking mercy, and asking for the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Historically, Adúrà Ògbon predates the formation of CAN by nearly five centuries, underscoring the rich spiritual heritage of the Ibokun people. Its continued observance today, now coordinated by CAN, reflects a unique blend of tradition, faith, unity, and continuity within the community.
The event attracted various women’s groups dressed in uniform, including Egbe Olori Oba, Sweet Mothers, and food vendors’ associations, Egbe Omo Oba, adding colour and organisation to the occasion. Special offerings and collections were also taken in support of CAN, the Bible Society, youth programmes, and other charitable causes.
In his closing remarks, Oba Awogboro appealed to anyone he might have offended to forgive him, noting that he had equally forgiven those who may have wronged him. He commended the developmental initiatives of His Imperial Majesty, Owa Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, Ajimoko III, particularly in the area of agriculture, and appealed to landowners to release land for proposed agricultural projects. The monarch also spoke on the renewed registration of Ibokun residents as a strategy for effective and inclusive community development.
The programme concluded with words of appreciation to the organisers and prayers for peace, progress, and purposeful leadership in Ibokun and across Ijesaland.
More Photos: Coverage Script ✍️ Camera 📸 Credit.. Oladimeji Lasore (+2347035105413, [email protected])
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