KAKAKIOODUA – Ilesa, Osun State
Kakakioodua correspondent was on ground as Ijesaland celebrated some of its most distinguished sons and daughters at a colourful Hall of Fame and Merit Awards ceremony held on Easter Sunday, April 5, 2026.
The prestigious event took place at the Owa Aromolaran Event Centre, located within the Palace Square, Ereja, Ilesa, and attracted a gathering widely described as the “cream de la cream” of Ijesa society.
The atmosphere was vibrant and festive, featuring cultural music performances, an abundance of food and drinks, and seamless coordination credited to Ajirowa Lateef Bakare, whose efforts ensured a well-organised ceremony.
At the centre of the occasion was the Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesaland, Owa Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, who was seated majestically and flanked by his Olórìs, Victoria and Iwayemi Haastrup. The event also witnessed the presence of prominent chiefs, traditional rulers, and dignitaries from across the region.
Hall of Fame Inductees
Among those inducted into the Ijesa Hall of Fame were notable personalities whose legacies have significantly shaped the socio-economic and cultural landscape of Ijesaland. They include:
Late Lawrence Omole (Posthumous)
Late Folorunso Awomoolo
Late I. K. Dairo (Posthumous)
Dame Yeye OWA Eunice Olayinka Obaleye
Prince Abiodun Lufadeju
Merit Award Recipients
The ceremony also recognised several individuals with Merit Awards for their outstanding contributions across various sectors:
H. E. Olusola Idowu Obada
Prince Francis A. O. Awogboro
Chief Christopher A. Sapara Williams
Late Oba Oladele Olashore (Posthumous)
Prof. Mrs. Bolanle Awe
Dr. Oguntola Odunbaku Sapara
Air Chief Marshall (Rtd) Oluseyi Petirin
Major General A. A. Fajemiwo
Mr. Olufemi Joseph Agunbiade
Israel Mobolaji Adesanya
Celebrating Legacies of Excellence
Special recognition was given to the late I. K. Dairo, an internationally acclaimed music icon and Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE), as well as Abiodun Lufadeju, composer of the widely celebrated Ijesa anthem.
Also honoured were the late Lawrence Omole, credited with establishing International Breweries in Ilesa, and Folorunso Awomoolo, founder of Imo Hills Farms—both acknowledged for their contributions to employment generation in the region.
In addition, Eunice Olayinka Obaleye was celebrated for her impact on industrial growth and philanthropy, notably her donation of a fully equipped Fistula and Obstetrics Centre to the Wesley Guild Hospital.
Representatives and Family Presence
Some awardees were represented by family members and associates. Demola Dairo represented the late I. K. Dairo, while members of the Omole family were present, including Dame Titilayo Martins (née Omole), first daughter of the late Lawrence Omole.
Mr. Sola Olashore represented the late Owaloko Oladele Olashore.
Also present was 83-year-old Mrs. Monisola Awomoolo, representing Folorunso Awomoolo.
Nomination Committee
The nomination process was overseen by a distinguished committee chaired by Akinwande Akinola. Other members include:
Lady Dupe Ajayi-Gbadebo
Oba Olufemi Agunsoye
Oba Festus Kayode Awogboro
Oba Olusegun Adedeji
Hon. Olanrewaju Balogun
Hon. Diti Aluko
Samuel Olusina Komolafe
The ceremony stood as a powerful celebration of legacy, service, and excellence, reinforcing Ijesaland’s commitment to honouring those who have made lasting impacts on its development and global recognition.
Coverage, script ✍️ Camera 📸 Credit; Oladimeji Lasore (+2347035105413, [email protected])
More Photos:
.png)
No comments:
Post a Comment