A delegation from the Itimoko Family, the leading custodians of the Egungun tradition in ancient Ottaland, met with His Majesty, Oba Professor Adeyemi Obalanlege, Ph.D., MCIPR, MPRII, FHEA (Lanlege Ekun II, Arole Iganmode, Olofin Apesin Olode, Olota of the Paramount and Ancient Ottaland) to discuss pressing concerns and recent developments affecting Egungun activities.
The delegation, comprising Alhaji Yaya Dada, Hon. Waliu Olajide Ojuko, Alani Sangodeyi, Alhaji Maroof Fatusi Oloponda, and Lukmon Salako, convened at Ipeti Royal Square on February 24, 2025, to present updates on their engagements with Agba Oje, both male and female.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Alhaji Maroof Oloponda expressed profound gratitude to Kabiyesi Olota for his decisive intervention in resolving several issues affecting Egungun adherents. He outlined corrective measures implemented by the family to prevent future occurrences and improve coordination within the Egungun community in complementing the efforts of Kabiyesi Olota.
He also conveyed an apology on behalf of Egungun adherents, acknowledging past lapses. He assured Kabiyesi that the family would intensify engagements with other key stakeholders to instil discipline and establish clear guidelines for Egungun movements and activities.
Furthermore, he emphasized that moving forward, the Palace would always be duly informed of their performances and public appearances in adherence to long-standing tradition.
In response, His Majesty, Oba Professor Adeyemi Obalanlege, commended the Itimoko Family for their unwavering commitment to preserving the Egungun tradition, which transcends religious affiliations. Acknowledging their proactive steps, Kabiyesi affirmed that Egungun activities should return in full force, expressing confidence in the delegation’s ability to ensure discipline and improved organization among Egungun adherents.
As part of the resolutions reached, it was declared that only the existing registered Egungun Alagbaada would be maintained, and no new Alagbaada would be permitted at this time to enhance coordination and uphold tradition.
His Majesty reassured all Egungun adherents of his unwavering support for preserving and promoting Otta’s rich cultural heritage. He reiterated the importance of sustaining Otta’s status as the Mecca of Egungun.
The Palace urges all stakeholders to uphold these resolutions and work collectively to ensure that the Egungun tradition thrives in an organized and disciplined manner in alignment with Otta’s cultural values and historical significance. The Palace will soon release a comprehensive resolution to guide Egungun leadership in implementing these measures.
Kabiyesi Oje ooOoo!
