Olujumu of Ijumu Kingdom Launches Cultural Festival, Calls for Support to Restore Cultural Glory
Iyara, Ijumu Local Government – His Royal Majesty, Oba (DR.) Williams Olusegun Ayeni, the Olujumu of Ijumu Kingdom, kicked off the maiden edition of the Ijumu Cultural Festival on November 4th, 2023, with an incredible display of appreciation and gratitude towards distinguished guests, who had graced the event with their presence.
In his royal greetings at the festival held in Iyara, the headquarters of Ijumu Local Government, Oba Ayeni expressed his heartfelt thanks to those who had honored the invitation to the great event. He commended their love and support for the kingdom, acknowledging that their presence was a testament to their deep connection to their roots.
Addressing all sons and daughters of Ijumu, the Olujumu expressed his gratitude for their unwavering support in the vision to restore the cultural glory of the kingdom. He described the achievement as a dream come true for not only himself but also for other traditional rulers in the kingdom. Oba Ayeni emphasized the importance of promoting culture and fostering unity among all inhabitants of the kingdom, as well as the various communities within it.
Special recognition was given to Oba Mufutau Mohammed Oloyede Gbadamosi, the Olofa of Offa, and his entourage, as well as to HRM Oba (Dr) Solomon Dele Owoniyi, the Chairman Okun Traditional Council, and all other royal fathers present at the festival. Their presence at the event further highlighted the significance of cultural preservation.
The Olujumu lamented the potential extinction of African culture due to the influence of what is considered civilization. He argued that what Africans often perceived as civilization was, in fact, the culture of the western world. Determined to reverse this trend, the Ijumu Traditional Council took the initiative to showcase the vibrant culture of the kingdom to the world.
In order to fully restore the cultural glory of Ijumu, Oba Ayeni appealed to everyone attending the festival to donate generously towards the fundraising campaign. The targeted goal was ₦250 million naira, which would be utilized to construct a palace building. The palace would house a museum, a church, a mosque, an auditorium, parks, gardens, and other facilities dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich heritage of the kingdom.
As the ceremony progressed, the Olujumu expressed his gratitude towards the Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Governor Yahaya Bello, and the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs for their support. He also acknowledged the Chairman of the Ijumu Local Government, Hon Taofiq Isa, government appointees, and elected officials.
In his closing remarks, the Olujumu offered prayers for a prosperous year ahead for all attendees, emphasizing the significance of cultural preservation and unity in achieving progress and development.
The Ijumu Cultural Festival is set to continue its vibrant celebrations over the course of several days, promising an unforgettable experience for all participants and spectators alike.
