By Editor
An array of dignitaries from all walks of life coupled with superb planning contributed to the success of this year’s Ipoti Day which after weeks of celebration, remained the talk of the town by residents of the town.
The occasion which was held on November 8, 2025, marked the end of a week long activities of Ipoti Day 2025 and continuation of the launching of millions Naira funds for new Palace and other projects amid pomp and celebrations.
One of the brains behind the success of the annual socio-cultural event was Hon. Garba Sola Arogundade as the Chairman, Ipoti Community Development Association who mobilized his friends and associates to the colourful event.
The arrival of the Royal Father of the town HRM Oba Kolade Oladipupo James (Oluwademilade 1) flanked by his two Oloris marked the opening of the carnival like event with prayer from the Chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Ipoti chapter. This was followed by rendition of Ekiti State anthem and Ipoti anthem in that order.
Students of two secondary schools in the community entertained the audience with cultural display while the MC announced the arrival of dignitaries at the event.
They included the Chairman of the day, Hon Davidson Akinlayo Kolawole MHR, Engr, Erelu Kemi Elebute, Halle (Chairperson of the day) with her husband, Chief Mrs Margaret Fagboyo, Hon. Ayodele Awe and invited royal fathers.
In his opening address, the Chairman of the occasion, Hon Arogundade expressed delight and appreciation to be considered as the newly elected Ipoti Community Development Association’s Chairman vowing not to betray the trust reposed in him.
His words: ” I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the wonderful people of Ipoti for placing their trust in me to lead during this important period. Your confidence in my abilities means a great deal to me and I’m committed to fulfilling the responsibilities of this position to the Best of my abilities” he said.
Speaking in similar vein, the Chairman of the host club, UNIPRO, Chief Ebun Joshua thanked all the invited guests for honouring the community with their presence.
He expressed optimism and readiness of the club to host Ipoti Day for five consecutive years expressing hope of completing a befitting Palace for the community within the shortest possible time.
Entertainment followed with grand performance by various cultural groups including; traditional hunters, Apiri, Dumdum and a live band to enliven the enthusiastic audience.
It was the turn of Oba Kolade James to give his prepared speech which was laced with gratitude to the invited guests, special guests of honour and Royal Fathers present including the Royal Father of the day, HRM Oba Dr Adu Adejimi Alagbado, the Ogoga of Ikere kingdom.
He had some words of admonition for the Governor of Ekiti State, Mr Biodun Oyebanji for his unalloyed commitment to the development of Ekitiland.
He says; “I appreciate the administration of H.E Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji and I wish to use this occasion to congratulate you as the flag bearer of your formidable party. Your nomination is a testimony of your unalloyed commitment to the development of Ekitiland
“We shall collectively harness today’s togetherness to lay another foundation of unity for the progress of our fatherland. To God be the glory”
Highlight of the day was the conferment of chieftaincy titles on some distinguished personalities by the Olupoti in recognition of their immense contribution to the society.
Top on the list was Ilawe-EKITI born Multi-disciplinary Development practitioner and former aide to ex-Governor Kayode Fayemi, Dr. Mts Margaret Fagboyo who bagged who bagged Yeye Gbadero of Ipotiland.
Others include; Hon Tunrayo Akintomide, the Asiwaju Bobagunwa of Ipoti land and his wife, Jennifer Nwokolo Akintomide, Yeye Bobagunwa of Ipotiland respectively.
