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Yoruba mythology describes ‘Ogun’ as a king and the father of Oranmiyan. He is also said to be the first to arrive on earth, clear the roads with a cutlass for the arrival of other deities and gives the finishing touches to the first set of human beings created by Obatala, the Yoruba God of creation.
He is also rated as the traditional deity of warriors, hunters, blacksmiths and drivers and associated not only with wars but with justice and truth among the Yoruba race.
As a warrior and powerful spirit who had helped his father, Oduduwa to fight and win many wars, his adherents celebrate his festival annually.
This important cultural festival is usually observed around August or September in Ondo state and part of Yoruba land.
But in recent years, the civilisation has gradually encroached on many cultural practices, Ogun event has been rebranded and modernized. It has turned into an annual carnival that serves as a meeting point of significant roles, which brings the indigenes from far and near together to discuss politics, economy, and town development. The celebration will further unify the existing communal bonding and settle age-long feuds.
Yesterday was “Ogun Iro” which was championed by Chief Ade Fayehun, Olu Ifetedo. It was a reunion of old friends and family members.
The gathering also provided an avenue to reminisce about fond memories, childhood experiences and tales of great exploits of past Iro warriors as the ancient community was ignited with the pomp and ceremony in celebration of this cultural event.
The popular iro quarter is part of the Akure South Local government area of Ondo state, South western Nigeria and it is famous for fearlessness, bravery and candour. It is the ancestral home of Chief Sao, the traditional leader of warriors of Akure Kingdom.
Historically, the previous and present Saos had fought many wars on behalf of Akure against invaders and their internal collaborators. They are reputed to possess enormous magical powers and spiritual influences.
In the same vein, this community has produced eminent sons and daughters across all spheres of life- Hon. Ifedayo Abegunde aka Abena, Barrister (Dr) Olumuyiwa Adu aka Cubana, Hon. Olu Eleko, Chief Ade Fayehun aka Ade Basket, Hon. Kemisola Adesanya aka Oseniyan and a host of others.
Dr Olumuyiwa Adu whose grandfather, Chief Adu Williams Falokun had once occupied the prestigious chieftaincy stool of Sao of Akure was there to witness the festival where he used the opportunity to preach love and unity among Akure Kingdom.
He profoundly appreciated Chief Ade Fayehun for being an ardent promoter and practitioner of culture and traditions of Iro community.
At the venue, Dr Adu prayed fervently for peace and progress of entire Akure inhabitants.
Credit: ADU MEDIA COUNCIL
18th September, 2023.
