By Adekunle Oluwafunmilayo
Ikangba was thrown into jubilation over the weekend as respected State, LGA AND Community Traditional Leaders, Family, Friends and philanthropist graced Chief Adekunle Olalekan was installed as the Araba of Ikangba, a revered traditional title within the ancient town of Odogbolu Local Government Area, Ogun State.
The colourful installation ceremony, held at the Nuraid Event Centre in Ikangba, attracted traditional rulers, chiefs, community leaders, political stakeholders, youths, and residents from within and outside the local government area, all of whom gathered to witness the historic occasion.
Speaking during the conferment, the royal father described the Araba title as one of honour, trust, and spiritual responsibility, noting that it is reserved for individuals of proven character, wisdom, and dedication to community service. He also commended Chief Olalekan Adekunle as a true son of Ikangba Town for his consistent contributions to the development of Ikangba town, particularly in the areas of youth empowerment, community harmony, and cultural preservation.
According to the monarch, the conferment of the Araba title reflects the community’s respect of Chief Olalekan’s selfless service and his commitment to upholding the values and traditions of Ikangba.
In his acceptance speech, Chief Olalekan Adekunle declares his acceptance of the title with humility and a deep sense of responsibility as " I remain committed to supporting the growth of Ikangba and preserving our cherished traditions for future generations,” he said.
He expressed profound gratitude to the traditional council and the people of Ikangba for the rare honour bestowed upon him. He described the title as a call to greater service and pledged to promote peace, unity, and cultural heritage and swore to Ikanhgba youth to be equitable, transparent and truthful irrespective of position or cadar in the town
The ceremony was enlivened with traditional drumming, chants, and cultural performances, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Ikangba and reinforcing the enduring relevance of traditional institutions in grassroots development.
Distinguished Traditionalist at the chieftaincy ceremony are, High Chief Ifakayode Oseni Araba Ogun State, High Chief Sunday Adebanjo, Baale Ikangba, High Chief Oduneye Adeniyi, Alase Yemule, Chief Abiodun Onilogbo Alakeji-Ifa, Ogun State Ikangba and Molipa, High Chief Adams Ahmed Oluwo-Ikangba, Chief Dariye Salau, Oloritun Ikangba, Chief Daida Quadri Oloritun itun Ikangba, Chief Kazeem Otunaiya Abore Ilu Ikangba, Chief Ademola Modiu, Oloolu-Ikangba, Chief Idowu Ogunsanya, Ajiroba and Oba Eduu Molipa Chief Fayemi Ogunyinka Oluwo-ifa Iloti and more Honourable
Residents and well-wishers have since described the installation as well-deserved, noting that the conferment of the Araba of Ikangba title on Chief Adekunle Olalekan marks a significant milestone in the town’s history.
