ODO-APE 2026: Community Marks Annual Festival with Call for Unity, Development, Security
The Odo-Ape community in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State came alive on Saturday as indigenes from across Nigeria and the diaspora converged to celebrate the 2026 Annual Day Festival, with a strong call for unity, sustainable development, and improved security.
The event, themed “A Celebration of Heritage and Progress,” attracted traditional rulers, political leaders, and community stakeholders, including the Secretary to the Kogi State Government, Mrs. Folashade Arike Ayoade, who represented Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo.
In his welcome address, the National President of the Odo-Ape Development Association, Mr. Jethro Kehinde Ologbonyo, described the festival as both a cultural showcase and a platform to mobilise resources for community development.
He highlighted the rich cultural heritage of Odo-Ape, citing traditions such as the Egungun and Egunda festivals, the Amoja musical heritage, and the community’s unique marriage system.
Ologbonyo emphasised the need to preserve key traditional institutions, including Iyeolofosi and Iyeolughonle, noting that they symbolise unity, discipline, and mutual respect among the people.
While commending the state government for its support through donations and infrastructural interventions, he urged authorities to address lingering challenges such as poor road networks, inadequate healthcare and education facilities, and insecurity.
He reaffirmed the community’s support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its “Renewed Hope” agenda, calling on indigenes and well-wishers to contribute generously to ongoing fundraising efforts aimed at accelerating development in the area.
Speaking on behalf of the state government, Mrs. Ayoade lauded the resilience of the Odo-Ape people despite security concerns in Kogi West. She assured that the administration of Governor Ododo remains committed to tackling insecurity and restoring lasting peace across the state.
She also called for continued support for government programmes and urged the community to rally behind Hon. Durosinmi Meseko, Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the APC, describing him as a worthy ambassador of Odo-Ape and Kogi State at the national level.
Delivering the keynote address, Hon. Meseko underscored the importance of balancing cultural preservation with modern development.
He described the festival as a reflection of the community’s resilience and collective strength, urging residents to embrace unity, hard work, and shared responsibility.
According to him, “This celebration is not just symbolic; it is a call to action. We must work together to develop our community, invest in our children, and support one another for sustainable progress.”
The traditional ruler, Oba Meseko, expressed appreciation for the prevailing peace and unity in Odo-Ape, offering prayers for continued progress and stronger communal ties.
In a show of solidarity from across Okunland, Asiwaju Prince Dr. Olatunji Olusoji, the Asiwaju of Ayere Kingdom and Chief Launcher of the event, represented by veteran journalist Chief Olugbemi Femi, commended the community for preserving its cultural identity.
He stressed that unity and cooperation remain critical to achieving meaningful development.
The colourful event featured cultural displays, traditional music, and vibrant attire, showcasing the rich heritage of Odo-Ape and reinforcing the community’s commitment to progress while staying rooted in its traditions.
