Ekiti State governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, former Presidential Adviser on Political Affairs, Chief Akin Osuntokun, and the Owa Ooye of Okemesi-Ekiti, Oba Gbadebo Adedeji, have called for cultural reawakening and value re-orientation among Ekiti people.

They spoke in Okemesi-Ekiti, Headquarters of Okemesi-Ido-Ile LCDA, at the weekend, at the triennial Cultural Heritage celebration of the community’s Oladunwo Masquerade festival.

They emphasised the need for reorientation of the younger generation on the values of rich Yoruba culture, traditional etiquette, and community service, and also to promote tourism development in the state.

Speaking about the seriousness his administration attaches to issues of culture and tourism, especially the uniqueness of Okemesi-Ekiti in the entire history of Ekiti, Oyebanji highlighted Ekiti’s historical role in Yorubaland as a centre of influence, promoting trade, leadership, and innovation among the people of the region and beyond.

The governor, represented by the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Prof. Rasaki Ojo-Bakare, stated that the state government is actively working to elevate the festival into a recognised tourism attraction.

He expressed his delight at the massive turnout, stressing that the festival would boost the local economy when fully utilised.

Speaking, Osuntokun, who is the Chairman of this year’s edition of the festival, explained that the traditional gathering serves as a valuable platform not only to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the community but also to galvanize support for its socio-economic development.

“The Okemesi Cultural Heritage celebration embodies our commitment to preserving and promoting our rich cultural values, which prioritise unity, security, and shared responsibility.

“The festival also offers a platform for fostering initiatives that uplift the community, while also uniting all sons, daughters, and friends in a collective celebration of identity,” Osuntokun said.

Osuntokun, a former Director-General of the Labour Party Presidential Campaign Council in the last general elections, commended the state government under Gov. Biodun Oyebanji for its infrastructural development efforts, saying he deserves to be re-elected as governor for a second term based on overall performance in many other areas.

He urged the state government to invest more in the cultural and tourism sectors, particularly in Okemesi, stressing that such investment would yield economic benefits for both the town and the state.

Also speaking, Oba Adedeji explained that contributions from the community leaders, businesses, and residents affirmed dedication to maintaining Okemesi as a safe, inclusive, and prosperous ancient town where traditions are honoured and progress is celebrated.

“As we embrace the spirit of this year’s festivities, let us take pride in our Okemesi-Ekiti identity and instil in future generations the values of integrity, respect, and community development.

“The Okemesi Cultural Heritage celebration is a call to action for us all to champion our culture and stand united against forces that threaten our peace and values.”

Oba Adedeji emphasised the vast cultural and tourism potential in the town, lamenting the apathy and inaction of political appointees from the area in advancing its development.

He said Ladunwo masquerade is significant among others because of its power to cure sicknesses, protect its people from danger, and its amusing display of entertainment.