Imafon Kingdom Agogo As Oba Samuel Adegbehingbe Aliu Celebrates the New Yam Festival
In a display of rich cultural heritage, traditional rulers from various domains in Ondo State converged at the Imafon Community to celebrate with Oba Samuel Adegbehingbe Aliu, the Olumafon of Imafon, as he hosted the 2024 Annual New Yam Festival. The much-anticipated event, held in a unique and grand fashion, took place at the Palace of Olumafon on Saturday, August 31, 2024.
Among the distinguished traditional rulers present at the festival were Oba Olufunmilayo Omoniyi of Ipinsa, Oba (Dr.) Sunday Adebayo of Abo-Asakin, Oba Edward of Isolo, Oba Ajomole Johnson Ojogbarika of Ilado, Oba Akinola Sunday of Aaye Akure South, High Chief Rotimi Olusanya, Asamo of Akure, High Chief Anthony Falowo, Aro of Akure, Olu of Araromi Ehin Ala, Alaba, and a host of other dignitaries.
In his remarks to the *Democrat News Magazine*, Oba Samuel Adegbehingbe Aliu expressed profound gratitude to God for the successful celebration of the 2024 New Yam Festival. He also shared his joy at the impressive turnout of Imafon sons and daughters, both at home and in the diaspora, who graced the occasion.
Oba Samuel Adegbehingbe Aliu highlighted the remarkable development that Imafon Community has witnessed in recent years, attributing it to divine grace and the unwavering support of the community’s indigenes. He encouraged the members of the community to continue being exemplary in their conduct, a message he consistently imparts to them.
The Olumafon of Imafon also commended the Ondo State Government, under the leadership of Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, for the ongoing developmental projects in the region, particularly the road construction from Imafon to the mainland, which now only requires completion of the final stretch to Igbatoro.
“I am deeply thankful to my fellow Obas who honored me with their presence today,” Oba Adegbehingbe Aliu stated. “It is my prayer that our bonds of friendship and cooperation will continue to flourish, and by God’s grace, I look forward to celebrating with them during their own festivals.”
Oba Adegbehingbe Aliu, Atonlusi I, whose reign has been marked by tremendous development and peace, continues to demonstrate selfless service and commitment to the progress of his community.
Speaking with journalists, Olori Titilayo Adegbehingbe Aliu expressed her heartfelt appreciation to all the guests, Obas, and Oloris who traveled from near and far to join in the celebration. She also encouraged the youth of the community to remain focused and committed to doing what is right at all times.
Among the prominent guests were Mr. Akin Kayode, Ogunlade Alaba Owoyemi, Olu of Kajola Ehin Ala, Akure North Local Government, Arole Ifa, Araba of Isinkan, Mr. Mayowa, and Hush Boby. They all extended their congratulations to Olumafon, Oloris, Chiefs, and the entire people of the community on another successful year of celebration.
Prince Adeniyi Francis Adegbehingbe, in his remarks, noted that the grand finale of the New Yam Festival, which began three days ago, had gone as planned, with peace and a bountiful harvest. He expressed deep appreciation to Oba Samuel Adegbehingbe Aliu for his tireless efforts in driving the development of the community, urging others to emulate his leadership.
In a congratulatory message, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Tailors (NUT), Emmanuel Samuel, praised Kabiyesi for fostering unity among the community’s members and various groups. He emphasized that Kabiyesi’s inclusive approach has been instrumental in the progress being witnessed in Imafon.
Mrs. Oladejo, Chairlady of the Nigeria Union of Tailors, also lauded Kabiyesi’s love for all members of the community, noting that this spirit of inclusivity has been key to the development and harmony in Imafon.