Obafemi Owode LG Chairman Pledges to Preserve Egba Heritage as Alake Commends Lisabi Forest Renovation
Abeokuta, Nigeria – The Executive Chairman of Obafemi Owode Local Government, Ambassador Adesina ’Lanre Ogunsola, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to preserving the rich cultural heritage of Egbaland, as the annual Lisabi Festival brought together traditional rulers, indigenes, and residents at the historic Igbo Lisabi in Oba-Erin.
Speaking during the 39th Lisabi Day celebration, Ambassador Ogunsola described the festival as a defining moment for the origin and heritage of the Egba people, stressing the importance of unity, homage, and receiving royal blessings from the Alake of Egbaland. He disclosed that the renovation, construction, and redesign of the ancient Lisabi site were carried out with the approval of His Royal Majesty, Oba Dr. Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, CFR, the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, as part of a deliberate strategy to protect the heroic history and cultural values of the location.
The Chairman noted that tradition forbids women from entering the sacred site, and announced that by the next Lisabi festival, his administration would construct a permanent shed at a safe distance to accommodate women. He expressed gratitude for the successful hosting of this year’s festival and prayed for long life and renewed strength for the Alake, as well as peace and progress for Egbaland and Ogun State.
Earlier, Oba Dr. Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, while commissioning the newly constructed barricade around the historic site, praised the local government chairman for the initiative. The monarch said the project aligned with earlier discussions he had with Ambassador Ogunsola and demonstrated a genuine commitment to the development of Egbaland’s cultural heritage. He expressed delight at the innovations introduced in the design, demarcation, and preservation of the site, and offered prayers for the continued success of the council chairman.
The event also witnessed the presence of the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, who reiterated his longstanding loyalty to the Egba people and pledged his unwavering support for the cause of Egbaland.
Other royal fathers in attendance included HRH Oba Reuben Oluwanbe Sogaolu, Olu of Orile-Imo; HRH Oba Adebayo Jimoh Adegbenro, Olu of Imedu-Nla, Mowe; HRH Oba (Amb.) Morufu Alani Adebayo Faac, Onitafin of Tafin, Ibarapa; as well as senior chiefs and community leaders including Chief Lukmon Olajide Atobatele, Balogun of Egbaland; High Chief Oluyinka Kufile, Oluwo Ijemo; Chief Basiru Abiodun Taiwo, Akinsiku of Egbaland; and Hon. Chief Abdul-Lateef Adekunle Ajayi, Bashorun of Orile-Imo, among others.
Reported by Ibikunle ’Kayode
Signed:
Prince Segun Soneye
Director of Information, Obafemi Owode Local Government
March 26, 2026
