The Ake Festival: A Celebration of Heritage and Legacy
The Ake festival, celebrated by the Onigede of Igede Ekiti, Oba James Adelusi Aladesuru II, has been a significant cultural event for the community. As the longest-reigning monarch in Nigeria, Oba Aladesuru has addressed recent claims that the festival is rooted in idol worship. He emphasized that the festival is not about idolatry but rather a celebration of the town’s rich history, culture, and the heroes who founded it.
During a press conference held at his palace as part of the week-long “Òdùn Àkè” 2025 event, Oba Aladesuru explained the origins of the festival. According to him, the founding fathers of the town were sixteen individuals who lived and governed from the Ake hills. Disagreements over leadership led the brothers to seek guidance from sacred streams, trees, and groves across the town. He mentioned that the youngest brother, who was hunting during the conflict, was chosen as the leader by the people who witnessed the event.
Oba Aladesuru highlighted that the festival is a tribute to the legacies of their forefathers and the origin of Ìgèdè. He clarified that the term “Ogede” is considered sacred and was used during the brothers’ heated arguments, which eventually evolved into the name of the town today. He stressed that using “Ogede” is a taboo, and the correct term is “òfò.”
Cultural Activities and Community Engagement
As part of the festival, various activities have been planned to engage the community. These include cultural displays, indoor games, and the commissioning of projects within the community. On Saturday, there will be a cultural display, fashion parade, and fundraising events. A thanksgiving service at the Christ Apostolic Church Igede-Ekiti will mark the end of the celebrations on Sunday.
Oba Aladesuru also encouraged the community members, especially those living abroad, to return and invest in their hometown. He expressed the need for their support to ensure that the town keeps pace with the modern world. “This is our home, and we need to join hands together to ensure it competes with the modern world,” he said.
Health Services and Community Support
Earlier in the week, free medical services were provided to the residents of the community by officials from the Federal Medical Center, Ido-Ekiti. Beneficiaries received free consultations, tests, and medications. Over 500 pairs of eye glasses were also distributed to elderly men and women.
Oba Aladesuru, who has reigned since 1959, is recognized as the longest-reigning traditional monarch in Nigeria and one of Africa’s longest-reigning monarchs. He ascended the throne at the age of 26 and celebrated his 66th year of reign in July 2025.
The Significance of the Ake Festival
The Ake festival serves as a reminder of the community’s deep-rooted traditions and values. It brings together people from all walks of life to celebrate their heritage and honor their ancestors. Through this festival, the community not only preserves its cultural identity but also fosters unity and collaboration among its members.
As the festival continues, it is evident that the Ake festival is more than just a celebration; it is a vital expression of the community’s history, resilience, and collective spirit. The involvement of both local and international community members highlights the importance of such events in promoting cultural awareness and social cohesion.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Ake festival stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Igede Ekiti community. It is a vibrant celebration that honors the past while looking towards the future. By dispelling misconceptions about its origins and emphasizing its cultural significance, Oba Aladesuru has reinforced the importance of preserving and respecting traditional practices.
Through the combined efforts of the community and its leaders, the Ake festival continues to thrive, serving as a beacon of cultural pride and unity. As the event unfolds, it is clear that the spirit of the festival will continue to inspire generations to come.