On behalf of the Igede Traditional Council, Oyo State, under the Office of Adirahu Ny’Igede 1 of Oyo State, Comrade Ochete has expressed profound appreciation to the government and people of Oyo State, as well as friends and well-wishers of the Igede community, for their support towards the successful celebration of this year’s New Yam Festival.
The appreciation comes following the 2026 annual celebration held in Ibadan, which brought together Igede sons and daughters, traditional representatives, community stakeholders, guests and supporters in an atmosphere of cultural pride, unity and fellowship.
The New Yam Festival holds deep significance in Igede cultural life. The National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO) describes Igede Agba as an important annual cultural festival of the Igede people, particularly those from Oju and Obi Local Government Areas of Benue State. Traditionally celebrated in September, the festival marks the new yam harvest and serves as an occasion for thanksgiving, communal feasting, music, traditional dances and the preservation of Igede cultural heritage.
Against this cultural background, Comrade Ochete expressed special appreciation to Hon. Ajigboye Akande, whom he described as someone who has stood by the Igede people and demonstrated continued interest in their welfare and community activities.
He also acknowledged Hon. Bimbo Adekanmbi for attending the celebration in person alongside Hon. Ajigboye Akande. According to the appreciation message, Adekanmbi’s words, declarations and expressed interest in the development and wellbeing of the Igede community in Oyo State were particularly appreciated.
The Igede community further stated that it looks forward to the fulfilment of the aspirations expressed by Adekanmbi as preparations continue towards the 2027 political season. Adekanmbi is the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) candidate for the 2027 Oyo State governorship election, following the party’s adoption of him as its consensus candidate in May 2026.
Comrade Ochete also extended appreciation to Hon. Yusuf Asimiyu Osuolale, whom the statement identifies as the APC candidate for the Ido/Ibarapa East Federal Constituency, for his presence and representation at the celebration.
Appreciation was equally extended to Hon. Aderemi (Remi) Oseni, identified in the statement as the APC candidate for the Oyo South Senatorial District in 2027, for recognising the importance of the Igede community and its place within the wider Oyo State political and social landscape. Public reports have separately identified Oseni as the APC candidate for Oyo South Senatorial District ahead of the 2027 elections.
Beyond politics, however, the celebration served as a reminder of the importance of cultural identity, communal solidarity and peaceful coexistence. Oyo State itself has a long tradition of supporting and showcasing cultural festivals, including its own yam-related celebrations such as Odun Isu (Yam Festival) in Sepeteri.
Comrade Ochete therefore extended heartfelt appreciation to all sons and daughters of Igede land from Benue State, particularly those resident in Oyo State, for their sacrifices, love, care and collective commitment towards making this year’s celebration better.
He commended the community for continuing to uphold the values for which Igede people are known, including hospitality, hard work, unity, mutual support and respect for one another.
The successful celebration, he noted, demonstrates what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared sense of identity and purpose.
The Igede Traditional Council, Oyo State, consequently expresses its gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of the 2026 New Yam Festival—traditional leaders, community members, guests, supporters, friends and well-wishers.
The celebration may have ended, but the message remains: unity, cultural preservation, mutual support and progress for the Igede people in Oyo State and beyond.
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