Ode-Omu, located in the present-day Osun State, Nigeria, has a rich history, but few people are aware that it was the ancient Ibadan warlords who originally settled the people of Ode-Omu in their current location in 1909. This historical connection was highlighted during the 2025 Ode-Omu Day celebration, which brought together prominent traditional leaders, including the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa 1.
The 2025 Ode-Omu Day celebration in Osun State was a grand slam, showcasing the unbreakable bond between Ibadan and Ode-Omu, a connection rooted in history! Back in 1909, it was the ancient Ibadan warriors who settled the people of Ode-Omu in their current location, marking a celebration of that legacy. Along with other notable traditional leaders, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa 1, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, was present to commemorate the event and look forward to a better future for Ode-Omu. It was a time to reflect on community development and the progress made, with a clear message of continued support from Ibadan.
Alhaj Jelili Wale Adesiyan, also known as Jallo, former Minister of Police Affairs, dropped some historical knowledge at the 2025 Ode-Omu Day celebration! He reminded everyone that it was indeed the Ibadan ancient warriors who settled Ode-Omu in its present location way back in 1909. He also gave a big shout-out to all the royal fathers, especially the Olubadan, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, for attending in full force to celebrate this momentous occasion!
The Olubadan, Oba Ladoja, gave props to the people of Ode-Omu, led by Alayegun of Ode-Omu, Oba James Bolarinwa Oladipupo, for their awesome community spirit! He promised that Ibadan will continue to support Ode-Omu’s growth and development. He also announced that Chief Tunde Afolabi, an illustrious son of Ibadanland and Parakoyi of Ibadanland, will preside over the 2026 Ode-Omu Day Celebration.
With Nigeria’s security situation being a major concern, the Olubadan, Oba Ladoja, has a message for the Yoruba people: “Stay alert and vigilant!” He emphasised the need for everyone to be watchful and proactive in ensuring their safety and security.
The 2025 Ode-Omu Day was a star-studded affair, featuring the attendance of top Yoruba traditional leaders. Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, Balogun of Ibadanland; Oba Abiodun Kola-Daisi, Osi Olubadan; and High Chief Senator Sarafadeen Alli, Ekerin Balogun of Ibadanland, all graced the occasion. Representing the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, was the Salu of Edunabon, Oba Kehinde Oladepo. The Ogunsua of Modakeke, Oba Joseph Olubiyi Toriola, and his Chiefs also attended the memorable event to celebrate with Ode-Omu!
Given the foregoing, let there be a cultural diplomacy between Ibadan and Ode-Omu, a bond of friendship and heritage. The proposed cultural exchange between Ibadan and Ode-Omu, to be facilitated by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), is a visionary initiative that promises to deepen the historic bond between the two communities. This noble endeavour will not only celebrate the rich cultural heritage of both cities but also foster greater understanding, unity and cooperation.
The masterstroke idea involves Ode-Omu showcasing their cultural prowess at the grand finale of the 2026 Ibadan Cultural Festival, while CCII reciprocates at Ode-Omu Day. It will provide a unique platform for both communities to share their traditions, customs and values, promoting cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.
This cultural exchange will also serve as a testament to the enduring relationship between Ibadan and Ode-Omu, forged by the ancient Ibadan warriors who settled Ode-Omu in 1909. It is a celebration of their shared history, heritage, and the unbreakable bond that exists between them. Ode-Omu, get ready to dazzle Ibadan with your cultural finesse; CCII, let us reciprocate with equal fervour at Ode-Omu Day!
I applaud CCII in anticipation of spearheading this initiative, and I urge all stakeholders to support this noble cause. Let’s come together to make this cultural extravaganza a grand success!
Let me conclude by expressing my admiration for the people of Ode-Omu! The Ode-Omu Day celebration is proof of the power of community spirit and development. The Progressive Forum, Ibadan (TPFI), felicitates the people of Ode-Omu on this year’s celebration and commends their tireless efforts towards progress and prosperity.
Tunji Oladejo, JP, mnipr, who writes from the University of Ibadan, is the Chairman of The Progressive Forum, Ibadan (TPFI) via oladejo65@gmail.com.
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