By Peter Dansu As part of events marking his 10th coronation anniversary, the Onimeke of Imeke Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Oba Abraham Olat...
By Peter Dansu
Oba Ogabi made the appeal during a press conference held at his palace on Saturday, May 17, 2025, marking the commencement of an elaborate 11-day celebration of his decade on the throne.
“The Ajara-Ikoga-Zebbe road has been in terrible condition for decades,” the monarch stated. “Its reconstruction will not only improve the lives of our people but will open up vast economic and social opportunities across Badagry. We have seen the positive impact of the Aradagun-Imeke-Iworo-Epeme road, and we ask the government to replicate such commitment elsewhere.”
In a rare demonstration of selfless leadership, Oba Ogabi emphasized that his requests go beyond the borders of his kingdom, citing a broader vision for the collective progress of Badagry. He commended Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu for completed projects within the region but urged him to match that momentum by reviving currently stalled infrastructure works.
Beyond the call for development, the monarch addressed rising tensions within the local political space, particularly among aspirants of the All Progressives Congress (APC) who felt shortchanged during the recently concluded party primaries for chairmanship and councillorship positions.
Oba Ogabi, who is known for his statesmanship and bridge-building across ethnic divides, counseled the aggrieved politicians to seek redress through the party’s internal mechanisms rather than resorting to violence or disruption of public peace.
“If you believe you were cheated and you are truly popular, APC is not the only political party in Nigeria,” he said bluntly. “There are other parties you can contest under. Election should never be a do-or-die affair. Violence will only set our community back.”
The monarch also spoke passionately about the unity between the Ogu and Awori peoples in Badagry, denouncing ethnic sentiments and describing the division as an artificial construct.
“We are one in Badagry,” he declared. “We’ve intermarried, our cultures have blended, and we are essentially a single, extended family. Let us reject anything that seeks to divide us.”
Reflecting on his decade-long reign, Oba Ogabi highlighted some of his key achievements including the reconstruction of the road linking Aradagun through Imeke, Iworo to Epeme, the rehabilitation of schools, a complete land survey of the Imeke Kingdom to protect it from government acquisition, and the revitalization of cultural heritage and traditions.
The press conference kicked off the start of an eleven-day festival commemorating the Onimeke’s ten years on the throne. The celebration began with traditional spiritual cleansing rites at the palace and throughout the Imeke Kingdom. A colorful cultural display featuring various performing troupes followed, showcasing the rich tapestry of Badagry’s traditions.
Organizers say the festival, which runs from May 17 to May 27, 2025, will be one of the most significant cultural events in the kingdom’s recent history. The program promises a blend of spiritual reflection, community engagement, cultural preservation, and entertainment—each day crafted to reflect the values, legacy, and leadership of Oba Ogabi.
As the celebrations continue, Imeke becomes a symbol not only of heritage and unity but of the unyielding call for meaningful development and peaceful coexistence in Badagry.
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