In a remarkable show of solidarity and leadership, the President of the Owu Youth Forum, Hon. Olawale Olajumoke, answered a significant courtesy call of the youths of Itori Township, located around Iyesi-Ota in Ogun State on Saturday, June 7th, 2025. The visit, held in the spirit of fostering unity among Owu descendants, was warmly received by a vibrant crowd of enthusiastic youths, distinguished elders, and prominent traditional leaders of the community.
Leading the host delegation was the esteemed Baale of Itori Township, *Chief Adeolu Adelanwa*, accompanied by his council of chiefs. Their collective presence registered the depth of cultural pride and longing for greater inclusion within the wider Owu Kingdom. The atmosphere was rich with camaraderie, cultural heritage, and a renewed call for integration.
During the interactive session, the youths and elders of Itori expressed heartfelt concerns about perceived isolation from the central activities of their source, Owu Kingdom, Abeokuta. They lamented the marginalization they face and noted that, despite their unwavering loyalty and active participation in events such as the *Odun Omo Olowu Annual Festival*, they have long been sidelined from broader developmental and cultural initiatives.
In his address, the President of the Owu Youth Forum acknowledged their genuine concerns and assured them of their full integration into the *Owu Youth Forum umbrella*, affirming that *no true descendant of Owu will be left behind*.
> “You are a vital part of the Owu heritage. The strength of the Owu crown lies in its unity and the unbroken spirit of its people—home and abroad,” the President remarked passionately.
> “The Owu Youth Forum stands with you, and together, we will ensure your voice is heard, your needs addressed, and your dreams supported.”
The visit also highlighted the resilience and potential of Itori township, as local leaders celebrated their sons and daughters excelling in various sectors, including but not limited to the Military, Law, Arts, Culture, Politics and Entrepreneurship. They called on members of the diaspora to reconnect with their roots and contribute to the ongoing effort to rebuild their ancestral land.
Amid the spirited discussions, the community raised pressing development needs, especially their prolonged *power blackout* and the urgent appeal for a *dispensary or basic healthcare facility* to be established in the township. They earnestly sought the intervention of their revered monarch, *Oba (Prof.) Saka Adelola Matemilola, FNSE, CANTAB*, the *Oluyalo, Otileta VII, Olowu of Owu Kingdom*, to assist in actualizing this request.
The visit concluded on a powerful note with a *progressive prayer* for the entire Owu Kingdom led by the centenarian, *Chief (Mrs.) Okelola Taiwo Amoke*, the *Iyalode of Itori* and *oldest woman in the community*. Her deep-rooted connection to *Erunmu Owu* as a descendant of the Ijaola family further emphasized the shared ancestry that binds Itori to the heart of Owu.
The President also brought *warm greetings from the Olowu of Owu, Oba (Prof.) Matemilola*, and fraternized freely with the youth, encouraging them to keep the flame of unity and development burning.
Special appreciation was extended to *Mr. Olamilekan Olaleye*, the *Olori Odo of Itori*, and *Prince Gbenga Matemilola*, who both played vital roles in facilitating the visit and ensuring its success.
As the Owu Youth Forum continues its mission of unity, development, and cultural revival, the visit to Itori Township stands as a testament to the inclusive vision of the current leadership, a vision where every Owu son and daughter, regardless of location, has a place at the table of progress.
E-Signed
Public Relations, Owu Youth Forum
PRESS RELEASE
June 9, 2025.
