The ancient town of Ido-Oko Ijesa in Obokun Local Government Area of Osun State came alive yesterday with pomp and excitement as the community commissioned the historical Ido-Oko Ijesa Ultra-Modern Cocoa Store. The landmark project is expected to transform the agricultural fortunes of farmers in the community and beyond.
The grand ceremony was led by His Royal Majesty, Oba Michael Babatunde Adedeji, the Ado-Oko of Ido-Oko Ijesa, in partnership with the Ido-Oko Ijesa Progressive Union (IPU). The commissioning marks a new era for farmers, traders, and the entire Osun agricultural value chain.
The multi-million-naira project was officially commissioned by High Chief Emiola Ogunsanya, Osun State Patron of the Cocoa Association of Nigeria (CAN), who described the initiative as a bold step towards strengthening the cocoa industry, a backbone of Osun’s economy.
Speaking at the event, Oba Adedeji emphasized that the Cocoa Store was more than just a structure, but a symbol of Ido-Oko Ijesa’s determination to preserve its agricultural heritage while embracing modern innovations. He added that the store would create wealth, reduce post-harvest losses, and empower young people to return to farming.
In his goodwill message, Prince Ademola Adeyeye, President of IPU, expressed gratitude to sons and daughters of the town for their unwavering support. He noted that the project was a product of collective effort and stood as a testament to the unity and progressiveness of the Ido-Oko Ijesa people.
The ceremony drew distinguished traditional rulers including HRM Oba Amos Adewumi Ogidiolu, Oniwoye of Iwoye-Ijesa; HRM Oba Michael Adeolu Oluwaseyi Adejola, Olomo of Omoo-Ijesa; HRM Oba Isiaka Adesina Ajarabiolu, Alase of Ilase-Ijesa; and HRM Oba Adetimo Adewumi, Ajaregbe of Ijaregbe-Ijesa. They all commended the Ado-Oko for his visionary leadership.
Also present was Chief (Mrs.) Alaba Christianah Ogunsanya, National Treasurer of the Cocoa Association of Nigeria, who applauded the initiative, stressing that the Cocoa Store would serve as a model for other farming communities in Nigeria.
Beyond the commissioning, the occasion also featured the conferment of traditional chieftaincy titles on eminent sons and daughters of the community. Among the honourees were High Chief Johnson Omoniyi, Odofin of Ido-Oko Ijesa; High Chief Olusegun Agbogungboro, Ejemu of Ido-Oko Ijesa; Hon. Chief Dosu Komolafe, Saba of Ido-Oko Ijesa; Chief Sunday Johnson Ogundipe, Asolo of Ido-Oko Ijesa; Chief Timothy Muyiwa Ilesanmi, Saloro of Ido-Oko Ijesa; and Chief David Adewale Areola, Oyefin of Ido-Oko Ijesa.
The monarch explained that the recognition of these new chiefs was aimed at strengthening traditional governance, preserving cultural heritage, and rewarding individuals who have shown outstanding commitment to community service and development.
The Ado-Oko in Council was further expanded with the inclusion of new chiefs such as Chief Adekunle Komolafe (Orunmisoro), Chief Cornelius Agbogungboro (Babaloga), Chief (Mrs.) Bunmi Ariyo (Iyaloja), Prince Oluwadamilare Adeyeye (Loyin), Prince Adekunle Isola (Oloriomo), and Mr. Remi Aluko (Deputy Oloriomo), among others.
Families, friends, and indigenes of Ido-Oko Ijesa trooped out in large numbers to witness the colourful occasion, which they described as historic. The event showcased the rich cultural heritage of the community through traditional music, dances, and displays.
In their remarks, the newly installed chiefs pledged loyalty to the Ado-Oko and promised to use their new positions to further the peace, progress, and development of Ido-Oko Ijesa. They also called on youths to see the Cocoa Store as an opportunity to embrace farming as a business.
The day was also an avenue for indigenes and guests to reflect on the enviable role of Ido-Oko Ijesa in Osun State’s history. Known for its industrious people and rich cultural traditions, the town has continued to be a shining example of unity and grassroots-driven development.
With the Cocoa Store project, Ido-Oko Ijesa has positioned itself as a hub for agricultural revival in Ijesaland and Osun State at large. The project is expected to attract investors, boost local trade, and cement the town’s place in the state’s economic roadmap.
As the curtains drew on the event, there was a unanimous sense of pride among the people. The commissioning of the Cocoa Store and the installation of new chiefs were seen not only as milestones but also as a promise of greater days ahead for Ido-Oko Ijesa.
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