The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yoruba land, Iba Gani Adams has advised Governor Rotimi Akeredolu and traditional rulers in Ondo State not to neglect the Yoruba cultural heritage.
Adams tasked both the government and traditional rulers to use the state’s cultural heritage to generate more revenue instead of relegating it to the background.
Adams made these disclosures during the 2022 edition of Okota festival which was held at the Palace Square, Arigidi-Akoko.
Dignitaries at the event include Akeredolu who was represented by the duo of Commissioners for Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations, Prince Boye Ologbese and that of Women Affairs, Princess Adebunmi Osadaunsi, Akala of Ikaram-Akoko, Oba A.O.Momodu, Arigbamu of Agbamu land, Oba Olusola Dare, Alase of Ase Akoko, Oba Ogidan Aderemi and Olubaka of Oka Akoko, Oba Adebori Adeleye.
Others are Osunla of Erusu Akoko, Oba Sunday Mogaji, Alase of Ase Akoko, Oba Ogidan Aderemi, Chief Toyin Olusile, Chief Titilope Hassan and Mr. Bob Agbede among others.
Adams while speaking, said the only way for the state government to generate more revenue at this time of dwindling revenue is to promote its cultural heritage.
The Yoruba generalissimo who also hails from Ondo, lamented that the state remains backward among the six states in the South West because it is not doing enough in promoting the cultural identity of its people.
He maintained that the Okota festival which is the most celebrated festival in Arigidi-Akoko town can be used to generate more revenue if the government and the traditional rulers in the state can harness its potential.
He advised the traditional rulers to rise up to the occasion.
Adams said, “It is very important for the Ondo State government to use cultural promotion template to improve the tourism and economic development in Ondo and its environs.
“The state government and the traditional institution need to do a lot more in promoting the culture and the tradition of the people to improve the state economy and further enhance development in the state.
“I am using this opportunity to appeal to all our traditional rulers in Akoko land to rise to the occasion and join the train of prosperous people that promote and celebrate their deities and ancestors.
Zaki of Arigidi-Akoko, Oba Yisa Olanipekun in his remarks expressed appreciation to the Aare Ona Kakanfo for his support and commitment in sustaining the cultural heritage of the town.
“I appreciate Aare Gani Adams’ zeal, dedication and commitment to promoting the Yoruba race and the core values of the traditional institution. It is our responsibilities as traditional rulers to ensure that we sustain our culture and tradition”.