The Olubaka of Oka Akoko, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr) Yusuf Adebori Adeleye, has called on residents of the community to embrace hard work and shun ritual killings and the desperate pursuit of wealth through dubious means.
Speaking during the maiden edition of the Aje Festival held at his palace in Oka-Akoko, Akoko South West Local Government Area of Ondo State, the monarch stressed that the celebration is rooted in spirituality and communal progress, not in any diabolical practice.
Oba Adeleye, who expressed satisfaction at the successful hosting of the festival, explained that Aje, which means “wealth” in Yoruba, is intended to offer prayers for prosperity among traders, farmers, and all residents working to earn an honest living.
“Aje itself, when you translate it into English, means ‘Wealth.’ We pray for our traders, our farmers, and everybody that has to do with one another to continue to enjoy the fruit of his labour, or her labour and that their businesses to continue to flourish. And that is the essence of celebrating Aje Festival and it’s unique.”
He further shed light on the cultural significance of the celebration, stating that the decision to begin observing the festival in Oka-Akoko followed inspiration from the Ooni of Ife’s annual Aje Festival.
“The Aje Festival that took place today is very historic, unique, it’s one of its kind. This is the first time, and historically we came from Ife. Yearly, His Emperial Majesty, Arole Oodua, Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, the Ooni of Ife, celebrates Aje Festival.
“And the last celebration came up recently. Iya Alaje was invited by the Iya Alaje Oodua. And when she came back, she briefed me that Kabiyesi we have to commence the celebration of this festival.
“It’s very unique, and it’s very important. And that is why I agree with her, and we decided to celebrate the event today. And I have a very strong view, firm belief, that our prayers will be heard.”
Also speaking at the event, the Iyalaje of Oka Akoko, Alhaja Bolaji Kayode, reinforced the monarch’s message by advising residents to steer clear of dishonesty and embrace honest labour.
Corroborating the words of the Monarch, Alhaja Bolaji Kayode, the Iyalaje of Oka Akoko, urged the residents to toe the line of hardwork and stay aloof from act of pilfering and other sharp practices.