The vibrant community of Ipakodo came together in a grand celebration to mark the annual Ipakodo Day, a cultural event honouring the progress and achievements made over the past year.
The week-long festivities kicked off on the 30th of September 2024 with Woro Day, a lively traditional street parade that embodied the spirit of unity, cultural pride, and the community’s commitment to growth.
Woro Day, known for its energetic atmosphere, featured a colourful procession filled with music, dance, and traditional costumes, bringing together residents from all walks of life to honour their shared heritage.
This marked the start of a series of events designed to reflect on the community’s progress and set the tone for the future.
Prince Olasukami Aremuade Shotonwa, Chairman of the Ipakodo Development Association, opened the celebrations by expressing pride in the community’s accomplishments over the past year.
He noted that this year’s celebration was poised to be the most successful yet, with a strong emphasis on unity and development.
He outlined the packed schedule of the week-long celebration, highlighting initiatives aimed at enhancing the welfare of Ipakodo residents.
One of the key initiatives is the provision of free medical services at the palace for all residents, offering them access to essential health check-ups at no cost. This reflects the association’s commitment to improving the well-being of the community.
Wednesday will see the unveiling of key development projects at the local primary school, led by Prince Tajudeen Odofin. These projects are expected to significantly enhance the educational infrastructure available to children.
The association, in partnership with the Tao Foundation, will also offer support to the elderly, providing essential care and services that will improve their quality of life.
Thursday is set to be a day of homage as market women, men, artisans, and various trade associations gather at the palace to pay respects.
The day will culminate in Ijoko Agba, a royal dance and celebration for elders aged 60 and above, with live music and cultural performances.
Friday will feature a special prayer session at the local mosque to give thanks for the community’s progress and unity.
The grand finale of the week will take place on Saturday at Ipakodo (Dangote ferry) Terminal, where the community will gather for a closing celebration.
Prince Shotonwa used the opportunity to call on Ipakodo indigenes living abroad to follow the example set by Prince Tajudeen Adedako Odofin, who has continuously given back to his hometown. He urged them to invest in the community’s growth and contribute to its development.
“We have made tremendous progress this year, and we are calling on all Ipakodo indigenes, both at home and abroad, to contribute to the betterment of our community,” Prince Shotonwa said. “Prince Tajudeen has set a remarkable example, and we hope others will follow in his footsteps.”
His Royal Majesty, Oba (Engr.) Basir Aremu Shotonwa, Sekumade of Ipakodo Kingdom, welcomed dignitaries and community members, emphasizing the cultural importance of Woro Day.
In his address, he explained that Woro serves as a formal notification to the community, symbolizing the official start of the celebration.
“This Woro is to notify the whole community that this event is taking place and to bring everyone together, irrespective of tribe or religion.
All residents are now bound to be together and perform different cultural activities,” Oba Shotonwa stated. He highlighted the vital role Woro plays in preserving Ipakodo’s cultural heritage and strengthening the bonds of unity among its residents.
Oba Shotonwa also spoke about the significance of the annual Ipakodo Day celebration, stating that it provides an opportunity for the community to reflect on its achievements.
“This event is held every year to showcase everything the community has achieved during the one-year period,” he remarked.
He encouraged residents to take active roles in the festivities, adding that the event symbolizes peace, a value central to the well-being of the community.
The king extended his gratitude to security agencies such as the Nigeria Police Force, the Ikorodu Division Peace Initiative, and the Joint Task Force for their efforts in maintaining safety in Ipakodo.
Their collaboration, he noted, has helped reduce crime and create a safer environment for residents.
In his closing remarks, Oba Shotonwa outlined his vision for Ipakodo’s future, projecting significant growth in key sectors over the next 15 years.
He emphasized the need for continued development in transportation, housing, and healthcare, ensuring that Ipakodo remains a thriving community.
The week-long event to mark the celebration is more than just a celebration of achievements; it is a reflection of the community’s collective desire to build a brighter future for generations to come.
INN-HOUSE☆ 