By Bisiriyu Rafiu Olalekan, Publisher, Quick Gist
On behalf of His Royal Majesty, Oba Engr. Dr. Kabiru Adewale Shotobi, GCIO, Adegorushen V, the Ayangburen of Ikorodu and Permanent Vice Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, the Media and Publicity Sub-Committee officially welcomed journalists to a press conference held at the Ayangburen Palace on Wednesday, July 23, 2025.
The press briefing marked the unveiling of the weeklong activities celebrating the monarch’s 10th Coronation Anniversary, a decade-long reign defined by peace, development, and cultural preservation across Ikorodu and its environs.
A Reign Rooted in Legacy and Service
Speaking at the event, Otunba Sir Ayodele Elesho, KJW, the Agbaakin of Ikorodu and Chairman of the Media and Publicity Sub-Committee, reflected on the milestone. He recalled how on May 25, 2015, Oba Shotobi was formally installed as the 20th Ayangburen of Ikorodu by former Governor Babatunde Fashola, SAN, with the presentation of the Staff of Office and Certificate of Appointment at the palace, before a jubilant crowd.
Following the ceremony, the Oba entered the traditional Ipebi for his rites of seclusion. His formal coronation was later concluded at Awofin, the old Ayangburen Palace, where he received the sacred crown—cementing his ascension to the ancestral throne.
Transformative Impact Over the Decade
Reflecting on the past ten years, Elesho described the monarch’s reign as “tremendously peaceful and progressive.” One of the major initiatives under the monarch’s rule is the Ikorodu Division Peace Initiative Limited (IDPIL), established in 2022 under Oba Shotobi’s leadership as Chairman of the Ikorodu Division Council of Obas and Chiefs.
The IDPIL has significantly improved local security through collaborative efforts with security agencies and has made impactful contributions in the areas of health, education, road rehabilitation, and environmental management.
Elesho noted, “The result of such strides was evident in 2022 when Ikorodu was officially recognized as the third-largest city in South-West Nigeria and the 12th largest in the country.”
Another initiative highlighted was the ongoing construction of a Renal Centre—nearing completion—to support healthcare needs and complement the existing facilities. Oba Shotobi has also been at the forefront of advocacy to upgrade Ikorodu General Hospital to a teaching hospital in partnership with the Lagos State Government.
Grand Celebration in the Offing
In honour of this milestone, Elesho revealed that the palace is preparing for a weeklong celebration from August 2 to August 10, 2025, set to attract dignitaries from within and outside Nigeria. The festivities will feature cultural events, a raffle draw (with a 2004 Toyota Camry as the star prize), and the launch of the Oba Kabiru Adewale Shotobi Royal Foundation.
Additionally, 50 indigent students will be awarded scholarships, and a commemorative book chronicling the monarch’s journey and achievements will be presented. Traditional titles will also be conferred on distinguished personalities, including Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, who will be honoured as Yeye Oba of Ikorodu.
The celebration kicks off with a Woro Traditional Procession and concludes with a Thanksgiving Service on August 10.
Elesho used the occasion to call for the full participation and cooperation of all stakeholders in ensuring a peaceful and successful event.
He closed with a heartfelt message:
“Thank you and God bless. Ikorodu Oga, we are here. Goodbye!”
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