As part of his administration’s resolve to promote cultural unity and socio-economic development, the Chairman, Akoko-Edo Local Government Area, Rt. Hon. Alabi Bliss Oshionogue has attended the 2025 Okpe New Yam Festival, which was organized by His Royal Highness, Oba Okhishimede Eshimokhai Idogu III, J.P OON, (Gbugbulu, Gbugbulu), the Olokpe of Okpe kingdom.
Speaking at the ceremony, Rt. Hon. Oshionogue disclosed that it was imperative for him to honour the invite as a demonstration of practical governance of Edo State Governor, Distinguished Sen. Monday Okpebholo as contained in his SHINE Agenda for the promotion of cultural heritage.
“The cultural heritage of a people can be an elixir for economic development if well harnessed. This is a critical component of the Governor’s SHINE Agenda that is people centric”. He stated.
In same vein, the Council Boss attended the 25th Annual Ekpedo Cultural Day Celebration, put together by the Community leaders, sons and daughters in the diaspora under the leadership of Oba John Afolabi Obabori, the Onose of Ekpedo. At the Ceremony, the Council Chairman informed the large audience about the State Governor’s passion in the promotion of cultural heritage. He disclosed that the Local Council under his watch is ready to partner with communities to foster peace, growth and prosperity.
Delivering his address, Dr. Fabunmi Francis Adesoji harped on love to promote the identity of ancestors and to chart a brighter future for generations to come. He explained that the anniversary was a cumulation of 25 years of tireless collective efforts, visionary leadership and community spirit. He appreciated the Oba, Chiefs, Elders and stakeholders for being unwavering custodians of peace and unity in the Community.
Present at the events were the Head of Local Government Administration, Dr. Igbinigie Osaheni, the Special Adviser to the Local Council on Political Matters, Hon. Stephen Ehihi, the Leader of Akoko-Edo Legislative Arm, Rt. Hon. Nicholas Akosile Imashimi, the Executive Chairman of the Edo State Board of Internal Revenue Service, Hon. Bankole Balogun, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Barr. Bisi Idaomi, Representative of People Living with Disabilities, Chief Ayo Olowojoba, some former members of the Edo State House of Assembly including Rt. Hon. Anselm Agbabi and Rt. Hon. Dele Oloruntoba Simeon, among others.
Okolo Jonathan Okhavhe
Public Relations Officer
Akoko-Edo Local Government Area
PHOTO CAPTION
R-L: Rt. Hon Alabi Bliss Oshionogue in a hand shake with Oba John Afolabi, the Onose of Ekpedo during the 25th Annual Ekpedo Cultural Day Celebration held at Akoko-Edo Local Government Area.
