Author: Tolulope
Today, April 1st, 2025 is a significant day for me as it marks the launch of my legacy project, ORUNTO OWU ABEOKUTA. This online platform is an extension of my reading culture advocacy, aimed at promoting enrichment through the internet to a wider audience. ORUNTO . OWU . ABEOKUTA is a mixed grill of information, enlightenment, entertainment, and education. Our goal is to provide fresh and relevant content, presented in an engaging format that includes photos, photographs, and vintage stories. The name ORUNTO . OWU . ABEOKUTA represents the preservation, promotion, expression, and documentation of people, places, and events. It’s…
His Royal Majesty, Oba (Prof.) Saka Adelola Matemilola, Olowu of Owu Kingdom, joined other traditional rulers and dignitaries on Saturday for the grand finale of the 2025 Lisabi Festival held at the Ake Pavilion in Abeokuta. Arriving in his royal regalia, the Olowu was warmly welcomed amidst cultural performances, traditional displays, and a vibrant crowd of Egba sons and daughters. His presence added prestige to the event, which celebrates the legacy of the legendary Egba hero, Lisabi Agbongbo-Akala. Amongst the itinerary for the day, was the official launch of the Egba Book 2024, a significant publication highlighting the history, culture,…
Once upon a time in Abeokuta, there was a woman named Madam Janet Ewusi Odesola who sold cooked beans. Her beans joint was at a prime location connecting Ijaiye, Ago-Oba, Itoku, Lafenwa, Isale Igbein, and Ake roads. This spot was called “Sapon,” derived from “Saponloore,” meaning “help the bachelors.” Back then, people, especially bachelors, loved eating at her restaurant. It became a popular spot for everyone, including kings, government officials, civil servants, and students, who enjoyed her beans and stew (ewa pakure). Born in 1925, Madam Janet attended Methodist elementary school in Ijoko, Abeokuta. She started her food business by…
We’re honored to represent Owu descent at the 38th Lisabi Festival as part of the esteemed entourage of HRM Oba Prof Saka Adelola Matemilola, Otileta VII Olowu Oluyalo of Owu Kingdom Abeokuta. As stakeholders in the Egba nation, we’re committed to promoting cultural development and celebrating our shared values and traditions without discrimination. Let’s work together to preserve our identity and customs for future generations, while dissociating from negative influences. Stay tuned to the ORUNTO OWU ABEOKUTA website for more historical insights and updates. It is with immense vigour we would celebrate culture, custom and tradition.
Abeokuta, the capital city of Ogun State, was aglow with colours, culture, and celebration as the 38th edition of the Lisabi Festival unfolded in grand style. The annual event, which pays homage to the legendary war hero Lisabi Agbongbo-Akala, brought together indigenes of Egbaland, cultural enthusiasts, tourists, and dignitaries from across Nigeria and beyond. This year’s edition was a spectacle of tradition, music, dance, and royal pageantry, as the rich cultural heritage of the Egba people was on full display. The week-long festivities featured an array of activities including traditional rites, musical performances, art exhibitions, cultural parades, sporting events, and…
Today, Saturday, 5th April, 2025, a new Alaafin, Iku Baba Yeye Oba Abimbola Moshood Owoade 1, mounts the exalted throne of his forefathers. May Kabiyesi Alaafin Owoade 1 live long, as his reign ushers in peace, prosperity unity and development of the ancient city of Oyo. Amen. Once a veteran, always a veteran.The journalistic instinct in me is burning to join, if it were possible, journalist s on the field now in Oyo Town, covering the coronation of Alaafin Owoade 1. Photograph above, as indicated in the caption, shows my humble self in the foreground, 40 years ago,on duty as…
Today, The SixthSense Initiative remembers a dear friend and champion, Olatunde Ayinde Oladunjoye, fondly known as CATO. His passing leaves an indelible mark on our hearts, and we honour his memory with gratitude. CATO was more than just a friend; he was a passionate advocate for children’s education and reading culture. When others were skeptical, he saw the value in our initiatives and offered his unwavering support. His enthusiasm was contagious, and his presence at our events inspired us to continue our mission. We recall the day he surprised us by attending our Children Reading Competition Programme at OOPL Abeokuta.…
CP Olanrewaju Ogunlowo, the Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, held Stakeholders Security Meeting today Thursday, 3rd April 2025 at the Eleweran police headquarters, specifically inside the Powa Hall, to commemorate National Police Day. This gathering brought together critical stakeholders in the state to discuss key security issues. It’s worth noting that the Ogun State Police Command has been proactive in enhancing security in the state. For instance, the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, commissioned a state-of-the-art Police Command Complex in Eleweran, Abeokuta, in April 2024. This complex is equipped with modern facilities and amenities aimed at…
In honour of the fearless Chief Sodeke and other brave warriors who made the ultimate sacrifice during the Egba Tribal Wars, the Itoku Cenotaph stands as a lasting testament to their courage and patriotism. Commemorating the Abeokuta Centenary Celebration (1830-1930), this revered monument serves as a poignant reminder of the city’s rich history and the heroes who shaped its destiny. Let us pay our respects to the fallen heroes and reflect on the sacrifices made to forge the Abeokuta we know today. The histories and records of founding of the Egbas are incomplete until the mention of some historical relics.…
The Olowu of Owu, Oba Prof. Saka Matemilola, has reiterated his commitment to the Olowu Hope Initiative (OHI), describing it as a transformative platform for sustainable development within and outside the kingdom. Speaking at the OHI Workshop, held to refine and realign the initiative’s vision, Kabiyesi commended the dedication of the team behind the project, noting that their collaborative efforts are vital in shaping a progressive roadmap for Owu’s socio-economic advancement. During the review session, which formed a critical segment of the workshop agenda, Oba Matemilola reflected on the milestones achieved so far, the education sectors, areas like scholarships of…