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Olukare’s 40th Coronation Anniversary: Aiyedatiwa, Olubaka Of Oka, Abodi Of Ikale, Oloye, Others Shower Encomium, As Monarch Preaches Peace, Unity
The Olukare of Ikare-Akoko in Akoko Northeast Local Government Area of Ondo State, Oba Saliu Akadiri Momoh IV, has called on the indigenes of the town to avoid actions that could disrupt the community’s peace and unity.
Speaking at the grand finale of his 40th coronation anniversary over the weekend, the first-class monarch delivered a powerful message of peace, urging sons and daughters of Ikare to eschew disputes and acts of violence that could destabilise the community.
He emphasised the need for harmony, stating: “To the good sons and daughters of Ikare Kingdom, it is a known fact that we do not have any other place to call our own.
This necessitates uncommon cooperation in taking Ikare to the next level. I implore you to shun any act capable of causing avoidable mayhem. Development thrives only in an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity.”
Reflecting on his ascension to the throne 40 years ago, Oba Momoh expressed gratitude for the support of the kingmakers and highlighted the significance of the occasion.
“The event we are witnessing today is the result of the resoluteness of our revered High Chiefs, who chose me from among many princes, all equally qualified to occupy the throne.
Many of the High Chiefs who played crucial roles in my installation are no longer here to witness today’s celebration. May Allah grant them Aljana Fridaus,” he said.
He acknowledged the heavy responsibilities placed on him by the kingmakers and reflected on the progress of Ikare under his reign.
“The decision of the kingmakers then placed an arduous task on my shoulders. By God’s grace, Ikare has transitioned from a township to a thriving city during my reign.”
The monarch pledged continued dedication to his people, declaring: “To our ancestors, we honour your legacy; to our children, we entrust our future. May this coronation anniversary mark the beginning of a new era of peace, progress, growth, development, and harmony.
May our kingdom continue to flourish under the guidance of the Almighty Allah.”
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State commended Oba Momoh’s leadership, describing his 40-year reign as a remarkable achievement. Represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Amidu Takuro, the governor lauded Ikare-Akoko’s status as a vital commercial hub in the Akoko region and praised the monarch’s patience, determination, and unwavering commitment to the town’s development.
“Four decades in the saddle is no small achievement. As one of the longest-serving traditional rulers in the state, Oba Momoh has enriched the traditional institution with his invaluable experience,” Aiyedatiwa remarked.
Senator Jide Ipinsagba, representing Ondo North Senatorial District, also acknowledged the significant progress Ikare-Akoko has experienced under Oba Momoh’s reign.
He called for continued support for the monarch and urged the community to remain united in their pursuit of progress.
Elder Alex Akande, Chairman of the Central Planning Committee for the anniversary, described the milestone as a remarkable achievement deserving of celebration.
He expressed his wishes for continued peace, prosperity, and blessings for the Olukare and the Ikare community.
As part of the celebrations, a 13-chapter, 202-page book titled The Crowned Legacy: Glorious Reign of HRM Oba (Alh.) Akadiri Saliu Momoh IV, JP CON, The Olukare of Ikare Land was launched. The book, authored by Alhaji Lai Gidado, publisher of Ebony Herald International Magazine, chronicles the monarch’s reign.
Professor Busuyi Mekusi of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, reviewed the book, while Senator Jide Ipinsagba, representing Senate Majority Leader Michael Opeyemi Bamidele and Senator Sani Mohammed, led the launch. Senator Ipinsagba and Senator Bamidele donated five million naira each, while Senator Sani Mohammed contributed fifteen million naira.
The Kunle Abdul family also made a substantial donation of ten million naira.
In attendance are; Olubaka of Oka land, Abodi of Ikale, Oloye of Oye from Ekiti State. Other dignitaries, including representatives of the Oba of Benin, the Ooni of Ife, and the Esama of Benin, and representatives of Deji of Akure graced the occasion, underscoring its prestige.
The celebrations highlighted the unity and strength of Ikare-Akoko and reaffirmed the community’s respect for its monarch.
As the festivities drew to a close, Oba Momoh and the dignitaries reiterated the importance of unity, cooperation, and continued support for the town’s development.
With its revered monarch at the helm, Ikare-Akoko looks forward to a future filled with peace, progress, and prosperity.
