By Bisiriyu Rafiu Olalekan | Ikorodu Lagos | August 4 2025.
The second day of the Ayangburen of Ikorodu’s 10th Coronation Anniversary brought colour, culture, and celebration to the heart of the kingdom, as Omoba Day took center stage.
Dedicated to the royal family, Omoba Day showcased the unity and rich heritage of the Omobas and Otunbas of Ikorodu, blending deep tradition with lively festivities. It was a day filled with royal dances, cultural pride, and a bit of healthy competition—all under the watchful eyes of the kingdom’s esteemed monarch, Alayeluwa Oba Kabir Adewale Shotobi.
“No Division, Only Unity” – Elesho Declares
Speaking to QuickGist, Sir Ayodele Elesho, the Agba Akin of Ikorodu Kingdom, former Lagos State Commissioner for Information, Culture, and Sports, and Head of Media & Publicity for the celebration, described Omoba Day as a proud moment for the kingdom:
“Omoba Day is symbolic—it shows the strength of unity among our royal family. Today, all Omobas and Otunbas danced to the sacred Gbedu drum to honour our Kabiyesi. There is no division in Ikorodu.”
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He also praised the growing momentum of the anniversary week:
“Day 1 was glorious, but Day 2 has taken the energy even higher. Ikorodu is a peaceful and united town, and our people are showing it.”
A Royal Dance-Off to Remember
The celebration wasn’t just ceremonial—it was fun. One of the day’s highlights was a Gbedu Dance Competition, where Omobas and Otubas competed for royal bragging rights and exciting prizes.
The Gbedu drum, traditionally played for kings and royal families in Yorubaland, echoed proudly through the grounds as contestants danced in rhythm and regalia.
Omoba Adedemeji Shotobi took 1st place, winning ₦25,000, a table-size deep freezer, and exercise books.
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Madam Sherifat claimed 2nd place, receiving ₦20,000, a blender, and exercise books.
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3rd place winner walked away with ₦10,000, a standing fan, and exercise books.
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4th and 5th place earned ₦5,000 each and exercise books.
All other participants received consolation prizes for their efforts.
It was royal fun with a noble purpose—strengthening bonds and honouring heritage.
Community Voices Celebrate Kabiyesi
Deaconess Oluwabusola Isikalu
Iyaoloja General of Ikorodu Division
“I’m excited and grateful to be part of this. Our Kabiyesi is a father to all, and we’re proud to celebrate his 10 years on the throne. Market Women’s Day is coming—join us on August 6 for a glorious celebration!” She also extended warm greetings to Olori Kudirat Shotobi, calling her “the treasure of the kingdom.”
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Oba Builder Asumo
The Alayandelu of Odo Ayandelu Kingdom
“Culture is everything. I was thrilled to see people dancing Gbedu—it’s a powerful symbol of Yoruba royalty. Kabiyesi has done well in preserving our identity.”
Asiwaju Steve Anifowoshe
A respected Ikorodu elder
“Kabiyesi is a first-class king. I urge all sons and daughters of Ikorodu, home and abroad, to continue working with him for our collective progress.”
Otunba Akinola Awomodu
Otunba Gbogbo Ogbonyari of Akarigbo Remo
“It’s a privilege to witness 10 years of Kabiyesi’s reign. He is admired across the South-West. His leadership is inclusive—he honours even those in the diaspora. As an engineer, he has ‘engineered’ Ikorodu’s transformation. We stand by him.
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Otunba Kazeem Sulaiman Olarewaju (SKO)
Executive Chairman, Ikorodu West LCDA
“Alayeluwa has brought development and unity. I’m honoured to be part of this historic celebration.”
Alhaji Ajiroba Ogidi
Ajiroba of Ikorodu Kingdom
“We are thankful for Kabiyesi. His reign has been peaceful and progressive. May it continue.”
Alhaji Monzor Olowosago
Baroyin of Ikorodu Kingdom
“Without culture, there is no history. Kabiyesi has protected both. For that, we celebrate him.”
Looking Ahead
With Day 2 wrapping up on a high note—full of laughter, royal pride, and community spirit—the people of Ikorodu now anticipate even grander events in the days ahead.
From Gbedu beats to heartfelt tributes, Omoba Day proved that Ikorodu’s royal lineage is not only alive but thriving—and its people remain proudly united under the banner of Alayeluwa.
