By Ado Adeboye
The Alale of Akungba rAkoko, His Royal Majesty, Oba Isiaka Oseni Adu, has urged indigenes and residents of his university town to embrace unity and work together for peace and progress in the community.
The monarch made this appeal on Saturday during a football match organised to herald the 2026 annual Akungba Day Festival, held at the AUD Primary School playing field in Ilale Quarter, Akungba-Akoko, Akoko South-West Local Government Area of Ondo State.
Speaking after the match, Oba Adu described football as a powerful tool for fostering peace and harmony, noting that the sport transcends ethnic and social divisions.
He said the decision to kick-start the festival activities with a football competition was aimed at promoting unity while showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Akungba people.
The traditional ruler also explained that the ancestral heritage of Akungba Day celebration remains one of the strongest platforms for bringing indigenes at home and in the Diaspora together.
According to him, the 2026 event would be particularly significant, as it coincides with the Kabiyesi's first anniversary on the throne, and it will feature the fundraising for an ultra-modern palace project.
Oba Adu further declared that his major priorities since ascending the throne in July 2025, have been the bridging divisions within the community and sustenance of collaboration among residents, for unity and equitable development.
“With one voice, we can achieve anything. My dream is to see all segments of Akungba united because unity is the foundation for development,” he said.
The monarch added that the establishment of a leadership hub, the Akungba Community Initiative Council, was pivotal in strengthening cooperation among all stakeholders in the community, as a rallying point for people from all the quarters of the town.
Responding, the Chairman of the 2026 Akungba Day Festival Planning Committee, Elder Bamidele Yakubu, said the football competition was designed to deepen social cohesion and promote harmony amongst residents.
He commended the leadership of the King, and pledged that the July festival would surpass previous editions, based on the high level of preparation already underway.
Yakubu urged residents to remain committed to the collective development of the town, saying, “Where there is unity, there will be development. If we work together and pursue a common goal, Akungba will witness tremendous progress in the years ahead.”
One of the sponsors of the soccer event, identified simply as Mr. Deji, praised the organisers for engaging youths through sports, noting that such initiatives was worthy of emulation, as it strengthens communal bond and reduces social vices.
The football encounter between Crown FC and Set FC ended 3-1 in favour of Crown FC The thrilling match sent spectator into a frenzy of applause for the players, whose impressive display and sportsmanship artistry was remarkable.
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