The Offa Descendants Union (ODU), Ibadan branch, has called for greater unity and peaceful coexistence among the Yoruba people, both in Nigeria and the Diaspora, during the third annual Offa Day celebration.
The event, held at the Mini Mapo Hall along Aleshinloye Road in Ibadan, was an occasion for reflection, celebration, and a renewed commitment to strengthening ties within the Yoruba community.
The commemorative event, which has become a key date in the Offa Descendants Union’s calendar, began with a performance of the Offa Anthem, setting a vibrant and hopeful tone for the day.
The gathering was aimed at deepening and promoting unity, engender cultural pride, and celebrating the heritage of the Offa people and their Yoruba roots.
In his opening address, Dr. Musibau Adekunle Ibrahim, Chairman of the Offa Descendants Union, emphasized the importance of love and unity among the Yoruba people.
“This is a time for us to come together, to work as one community, and support one another for the greater good of our people,” he said.
His words created a conscious awarening in the minds of attendees throughout the event, with various speakers urging the community to embrace mutual cooperation and collaboration.
Guest lecturer Muhammadu Lawal, in his address, emphasized the importance of cultural preservation and the need for Yoruba people to remain united across regional and international boundaries.
“Our strength lies in our unity,” Lawal remarked, stressing that collective action is vital for the advancement of the Yoruba nation.
The celebration also featured a captivating drama segment that highlighted the rich cultural heritage and history of the Yoruba people, which provided attendees with a deeper understanding and appreciation of their roots.
Representatives from the Oyo State government were in attendance, with notable figures such as the Commissioner for Public Works, Prof. Dawud Sangodoyin, and a strong ally of the state governor, Otunba Seye Famojuro.
The duo expressed their appreciation for the peace and security in the state under the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde maintaining that Governor Makinde’s efforts have been credited with bringing stability and development to the south west region, much to the benefit of the Offa community and beyond.
Attendees in their separate goodwill messages expressed their gratitude to Governor Makinde for his transformative works in Oyo State, which has had positive impacts on the lives of many Yoruba people.
Highlight of the celebration was the fundraising campaign aimed at furthering the activities of the Offa Descendants Union.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including executive chairmen of local governments; Hon. Sikiru Sanda, Engr. Akeem Olatunji, Hon. Abideen Adeaga, Mudashiru Kamarudeen, members of the Oyo State House of Assembly, and Mr. Salawudeen Majeed Olalekan, among others.