The ancient town of Ikare-Akoko, headquarters of the Akoko North East Local Government Area of Ondo State and the commercial hub of Akoko region, was at the weekend agog following the 40th coronation anniversary of the Olukare of Ikare Kingdom, Oba Akadiri Saliu Momoh IV, JP CON.

With the week-long milestone event, which culminated on Saturday at Lenon Jubilee High School, sons and daughters of the hilly community as well as dignitaries from all walks of life stormed the town to honour and pay homage to the revered first-class monarch.

During the event, which witnessed a rich blend of cultural and entertaining activities, the Olukare of Ikare expressed gratitude to the people of Ikare Akoko for their support and loyalty over the years.

The monarch said: “The event we are witnessing today was as a result of the resoluteness of our revered High Chiefs, who elected me out of many princes who are equally qualified to fill the throne. Many of the High Chiefs are no longer around to witness today’s event. May Allah grant them Aljana Fidaus. 

“The decision of the kingmakers then placed an arduous task on my shoulder, and in my candid opinion, God has been so kind to Ikare Kingdom under my reign, which has placed Ikare Akoko top amongst the comity of nations through the transformation of Ikare from a township status to a city.

“To the good Sons and Daughters of Ikare Kingdom, it is a known fact that we don’t have any other place to call our own, which necessitates uncommon cooperation in taking Ikare town to the next level. I want you to shun any act that is capable of causing avoidable mayhem as development strives in the atmosphere of peace and tranquillity.

“To my people, I pledge to continue to serve with wisdom, compassion, and strength. To our ancestors, we honour your legacy; to our children, we entrust our future. May this coronation anniversary mark the beginning of a new era of peace, progress, growth, development, and harmony. May our Kingdom continue to flourish under the guidance of the Almighty Allah.”

While describing the reign of the monarch in the last four decades as a remarkable achievement in the history of Ikare, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa hailed Olukare for his enduring service and contributions to the development of the town.

Aiyedatiwa, who was represented by the Commsissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Amidu Takuro, stated that Ikare remains a critical commercial hub in the Akoko region, commended Oba Momoh for his patience, doggedness, and commitment, stating that it takes a special grace to pilot the affairs of a great community like Ikare for 40 years.

“Two scores in the saddle is no mean achievement. As one of the longest-serving traditional rulers in the state, Oba Momoh has enriched the traditional institution with his hard-earned experience.

The governor, who commended the monarch’s commitment to the growth of Ikare-Akoko, prayed for continued blessings over the community and its people.

While emphasising that under the watch of the traditional ruler, Ikare has witnessed immense development across boards, the senator representing the Ondo North Senatorial District, Jide Ipinsagba, and the chief host called for continued support for the monarch. 

On his part, the Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Elder Alex Akande, stated that “attaining forty years on the throne calls for joy, happiness, and celebration. May this milestone mark the beginning of a new chapter of peace, progress, and blessings for him and the entire Ikare community. 

Meanwhile, the event also witnessed the launching of a book titled ‘The Crowned Legacy: Glorious Reign of HRM. Oba (Alh.) Akadiri Saliu Momo IV. JP CON. The Olukare of Ikare, which was reviewed by Prof. Busuyi Mekusi of the Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA).