The Owa-Ale of Ikare-Akoko in Ondo State, Oba Adeleke Adegbite-Adedoyin, has called on both the federal and state governments to support the development of the annual Olokemeji Tako Tabo Festival to boost tourism and the local economy.
The monarch made the appeal during this year’s celebration, held on the ancient Olokemeji hills, where residents and visitors gathered for prayers, cultural displays, and thanksgiving.
Oba Adegbite-Adedoyin described the Olokemeji Festival as one of the largest traditional gatherings in Nigeria, saying that with proper government attention, it could become a major tourism asset for Ondo State and the country. He noted that the festival was not only a cultural event but also a moment of deep spiritual reflection, adding, “Apart from celebrating our culture, this is a place where we come yearly to pray, and I can assure you that any prayer made here with a sincere heart will be answered.”
The monarch explained that the festival dates back to the early settlers of Ikare, led by the then Owa-Ale Agbaode, who migrated from Ile-Ife and settled on the sacred Olokemeji hills. He added that the festival continues to attract participants from across Nigeria and even from abroad, including visitors from the United Kingdom and the United States.
Oba Adegbite-Adedoyin appealed to the government to help improve infrastructure leading to the festival site, particularly the roads linking Ikare to neighbouring states like Ekiti, Kogi, and Edo. He said such development would enhance accessibility and increase the inflow of tourists, which in turn would boost local trade and hospitality businesses.
Also speaking at the event, the Yeye Asa of Ikare, Chief Modupe Akerele, described the festival as a time for spiritual renewal and communal unity. She said it provides an opportunity for indigenes both at home and abroad to reconnect with their roots and offer gratitude for divine protection. Similarly, High Chief Lawrence Olaleye-Omotosho of Okegbe Quarters said the festival benefits traders and hoteliers as it draws large crowds, which drives economic activity in the town.
The Owa-Ale concluded by urging both public and private sectors to invest in the promotion of traditional festivals like Olokemeji, stressing that cultural heritage is key to tourism growth. “There is no festival as large as this in the entire country,” he said, “and if properly supported, it will bring global recognition to Ikare and Ondo State as a whole.”
