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| From L-R: The Olubaka, Alale and wife |
By Adeboye Ado
The ancient town of Akungba-Akoko in Akoko South-West Local Government Area of Ondo State came alive on Saturday as indigenes and visitors converged on the Holy Trinity Primary School playground for the 2026 Akungba Day and annual New Yam Festival.
The colourful celebration attracted traditional rulers, government officials, community leaders, academics, business executives and sons and daughters of the town from within and outside Nigeria.
Addressing the gathering, the Alale of Akungba-Akoko, Oba Isiaka Oseni Adu (JP), Agure I, called on residents to remain united and committed to the peace and development of the community, describing unity as the foundation for sustainable progress.
The monarch, who also marked the first anniversary of his ascension to the throne, said the past one year had been dedicated to promoting peace, dignity and development in the kingdom.
He said, "Today is not merely a celebration of one year on the throne; it is a celebration of our collective resilience and our shared commitment to building a stronger and more prosperous Akungba-Akoko."
Oba Adu appreciated Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the Ondo State Government, members of the Alale-in-Council, community leaders and indigenes at home and in the diaspora for their support towards the growth of the town.
"I also pay glowing tribute to our illustrious sons and daughters, both at home and abroad, whose generosity, expertise, prayers and financial support continue to uplift our community," he said.
The monarch disclosed that his administration had recorded notable achievements in the last one year, including the renovation of the Alale Palace, installation of more traditional chiefs, promotion of peace among residents and stronger collaboration with security agencies.
He, however, appealed to the Federal Government, Ondo State Government, philanthropists, corporate organisations and well-meaning indigenes to support the construction of a befitting modern royal palace.
"One of our greatest achievements has been the reconstruction and renovation of the Alale Palace. However, we need the support of government and all sons and daughters of Akungba to build a new palace befitting a First-Class traditional ruler," the monarch added.
Oba Adu said his administration would continue to prioritise youth empowerment, education, security, healthcare, tourism, agriculture and the preservation of the community's rich cultural heritage.
He also urged residents to shun divisive tendencies.
"No community develops through division. Political differences must never divide us. Religious diversity must never separate us. Let us work together, pray together, build together and protect our heritage together," he said.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of Akoko South-West Local Government Area, Hon. Ayo Ajana, represented by Hon. Sunday Odunayo, urged residents to continue supporting government policies and community-driven development initiatives.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Akungba Day 2026 Planning Committee, Elder Dele Yakubu, described the celebration as a platform to promote the rich cultural heritage of the community and strengthen the bond among its people. He urged indigenes and residents to remain united and continue working together for the progress of Akungba.
Yakubu said, "Our strength lies in our togetherness, and by joining hands, we can achieve greater development in education, infrastructure, youth empowerment, security and economic growth."
He also called on residents to continue to live in peace and mutual respect, stressing that unity remains essential to the community's progress.
"As we celebrate today, let us renew our commitment to the progress of Akungba and continue to promote the values that make our community a source of pride," he added.
Speaking on the sidelines of the event, the Chairman of the Akungba Community Initiative Council, Chief Dele Olowogorioye, described the annual New Yam Festival as a unifying event that brings together sons and daughters of the community from across the world.
The Chief Launcher, Hon. Ismaila Oseni, called on residents to continue supporting the traditional institution and remain law-abiding, while the Alara of Araromi, High Chief Tolu Babaleye, urged the people to sustain the prevailing peace, noting that unity remained the key to development.
Similarly, the member representing Akoko South-West Constituency II in the Ondo State House of Assembly, Hon. Tope Agbulu, commended the monarch for fostering peace and unity in the community, expressing confidence that Akungba would witness greater development under his reign.
However, the APC candidate for Akoko South-West Constituency II in the Ondo State House of Assembly, Hon. Niran Olanusi, commended the Alale of Akungba-Akoko for his leadership and efforts at fostering unity in the community, urging residents to continue to embrace peace as a catalyst for sustainable development.
Other dignitaries at the event included the Asiwaju of Akungba, Dr. Bode Iwaloye; former President of the Akungba Development Union, Chief Joe Oludare; Founder of Sam Maris University, Supare-Akoko, Barr. Sam T. Ologunorisa (SAN); Barr. Duro Adonis; Chief Tolu Oriyomi, among others.
The celebration featured bursary awards to students, colourful cultural displays, traditional performances, musical entertainment and various competitions.
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