Egba Traditional Worshipers frown at Alake Absence during annual Isese Festival - Chief Atanda Baoku

By Miracle Okoro, Abeokuta 

The Egba Traditionalists  were not happy with His Royal Majesty, Oba Dr. Adedotun Gbadebo, the Alake of Akeland and the Paramount Ruler of Egba land for not honouring the traditional worshipers in the state.

High Chief Ifagbeminiyi Baoku Ifatanatala stated this during the 2025 Isese festival at Alake Palace, Abeokuta, Ogun State.

However, Tantala confirmed that Oba Adedotun identified with Egba Traditional worshipers in 2020 during Covid 19. 

He stated further that both christian religions leaders and Islamic religions worshipers do visit the revered king during December and  Ileya periods respectively and Baba Alake does receive them wholeheartedly. He berated the king for the show of total disdain and lack of respect to the traditional worshipers. 

While appreciating the Executive Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dr Dapo Abiodun for identifying with them and showing love and affection to the traditional worshipers in the state.

According to the representatives of His Royal Majesty, Oba Dr Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo Alake & Paramount Ruler of Egba land, duly represented by High Chief (Engr) Olusoji Sodamola Oluwo of Itoku and the Chairman of regency Ake Palace, he Congratulated the Egba and Ogun State traditional worshipers for their constant appeasement to God Almighty. 

Similarly, the Honourable Commissioner For Local Government, Hon. Oluwasesan Fagbayi, urged  traditional worshipers in Ogun State to continue praying for the unity, peace and development of our respective homes as he  promised to deliver the message of the people to the Kabiyesi.

Also,  High Chief Aregbesola Anipupo, the Oluwo Ifa of Ogun State appreciates the governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun for coming to their aid by officially recognizing every August 20 as a public holiday so as to mark the Isese Day.

The Oluwa Ifa stated that other religions worshipers such as Christians and Muslim observe their holidays during Easter, Xmas and new year, while Islamic religion observes their holidays during Ileya festival, Ramadan and the birth of Prophet Muhammad respectively.