It was a vibrant display of rich Yoruba heritage and tradition as the Aperin Obisesan dynasty converged for their annual carnival, event that has evolved from a cultural celebration into a powerhouse for community development.
This year’s gathering served as a rallying point for kinsmen returning from home and abroad to honor their roots, while simultaneously setting a bold agenda for the future.
The atmosphere was electric as members of the “crème de la crème” of the community gathered to deepen the bonds of unity and celebrate the legacy of their forebears.
Addressing the crowd, the Mogaji of the family, Mogaji Kayode Tokunbo Obisesan, reflected on a year of unprecedented harmony, describing the current era as the most unified in his tenure.
In an emotional tribute, he honored the memory of his late father, Professor Abimbola Obisesan, and acknowledged the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including Baba Oloye Are Alasa Balogun Lowo Obisesan, the Alakanran of Alakanran, the Alaro of Alaro, and various community leaders.
The event drew an impressive turnout, underscoring the dynasty’s significance in the sociopolitical fabric of Ibadan.
Among those in attendance were the PDP candidate for the Ibadan Southwest/Ibadan Northwest federal constituency, Honourable Opeyemi Fatola; Barrister Lowo Obisesan; Mogaji Tunji Hazmat Jigan; Mogaji Ile Adewuyi Kasumu Ogbagba; and Oba Kola Adegbola.
Speaking with newsmen, Hon. Opeyemi Fatola lauded the lineage as a family of warriors whose history is worth celebrating, noting that the event acts as a vital bridge that redirects the attention of today’s youth toward their cultural roots despite the distractions of modern technology.
Beyond the cultural fanfare, the dynasty unveiled a comprehensive five-year strategic development plan designed to transform Aperin into a global cultural brand while driving massive local economic prosperity.
The centerpiece of this ambition is a 200-acre estate project, projected to generate over N2.5 billion in value, which is scheduled to commence at the beginning of next year.
Further plans include the establishment of a university, starting with three faculties: Medicine, Finance, and Law, supported by a comprehensive blueprint already in development.
To improve quality of life, the leadership is also actively seeking funding for a modern healthcare centre to be completed within 18 months, while 70 solar streetlights and 10 solar security cameras are set for installation by September 2026 to bolster community security and infrastructure.
Additionally, the dynasty is pushing forward with the “Ile Igbejo” palace project, a landmark initiative intended to serve as a lasting symbol of heritage for the community.
The day was capped with a rhythmic flair as renowned musician, Alhaji Ayinde Marage, took to the bandstand. His performance held audience spellbound, turning the gathering into unforgettable celebration of a dynasty that is not only honoring its past but actively building its destiny.
