Medicals, Games As Odogbawojo King, Oba Adeniyi Celebrates Day 1 Of Coronation Anniversary

By Babawale Solomon

Eko Hot Blog reports that HRM Oba Maruffdeen Adelani Oluwafunmilade Adeniyi, Oke 1, of Odogbawojo, Epe, Lagos State, has commenced the festivities marking his one-year coronation anniversary.

Festivities, which encompass a diverse range of activities aimed at fostering community unity and well-being, began on Thursday, November 30th.

Day one of the coronation anniversary started with interfaith prayers, where members of both the Christian and Islamic faiths took turns to offer prayers for the king and the prosperity of the kingdom.

Subsequently, a medical outreach initiative provided the community with free diagnosis, treatment, and medications, courtesy of the royal medical team.

During the medical activities, Oba Adeniyi granted a press interview, sharing insights into his vision and aspirations for the community.

Speaking with reporters, the monarch disclosed the challenges he has faced since his inception as the king of Odogbawojo.

He spoke about how land disputes have threatened peace in Odogbawojo, adding that progress has been made in resolving the problem.

Oba Adeniyi also thanked the Eredo LCDA chairman, Hon. Monsuru Akinloye, for his efforts in enhancing the security in his kingdom.

“The last year has been one of mixed feelings, bringing joy, happiness, and pleasure. It has also been a period of challenges, endurance, and a lot of crisis management,” he said.

“In every community, there are peculiarities, but in a developing community like ours, there is always one particular problem – the problem of land disputes. We have faced numerous challenges regarding land disputes since my inception.

“I’ve tried as much as possible to see how we can resolve this crisis, especially those in court, and perhaps settle them out of court. However, it is not easy. Because this area is now exposed and developing, there is a lot of pressure.

“Land speculators and grabbers are always present, and indigenous people see it as an opportunity to make money, making it very difficult. But we thank God we are making progress little by little.

“We have resolved within ourselves that no one should bring in land grabbers. Whatever the situation is, we will resolve it internally, and whatever we can’t resolve, we have to take to court.

“Secondly, because of the developing nature of this area, we also face the problem of vandals. Most of the new sites that have been developed to vandalize things pose a challenge too.

“We have to thank the Eredo LCDA chairman, Hon. Monsuru Akinloye, who has taken it upon himself to set up a local vigilante known as the ESF, Eredo Security Forum, to complement the former security outfit and security forces and monitor the communities.

“Finally, the issue of cultism is a global phenomenon, and we are not left out. Since I came, I have called all the youth, whether you belong or you don’t, I don’t want to hear about cultism in the community.

“Anyone discovered trying to promote cultism, I will personally arrest that person. Now, I thank God we are working towards peace, and there’s harmony among our youth.”

Oba Adeniyi also appreciated the Lagos State Government for bringing more development to Odogbawojo division and also for his installation as king.

“I have a very big message to the Lagos State government, but I want to first thank the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for his developmental effort in this area. I also thank the Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat.

“Both of them have been doing wonderfully well, bringing a lot of developmental projects. That is one of the reasons why there is a crisis and rush for our lands; everybody wants to move in here because this is the new hub of Lagos State. I also want to thank him for installing us last year. He gave us the staff of office during our inauguration.”

He, however, requested for more authority for the traditional rulers since they are the grassroots government, to aid them in the proper discharge of their duties.

The festivities continued with the community actively participating in traditional games, including draft and ayo olopon. A dancing competition added to the joyful atmosphere, with children showcasing their interest and talent.

An educational programme was incorporated into the celebration with a quiz competition amongst students in the community.

The day’s events bloomed in a vibrant display of music, dance, and preparation for the upcoming installation of chiefs and the grand celebration scheduled for Saturday, December 2nd.

As Odogbawojo revels in the festivities, the community expresses gratitude for a year of royal leadership under HRM Oba Adeniyi, Oke 1.

See more photos from the first day of festivities below:

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