Award ceremony highlights commitment to culture, community service, and grassroots development
By Feyisetan Hamzat
Benny News Hub | Ibadan
Honourable Ezekiel Temitope O-Otope, Director-General of the Oyo State Liaison Office (Lagos and Abuja), has been honoured by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) with the prestigious Icon of Ibadan Heritage Award in recognition of his sustained contributions to grassroots development, philanthropy, and dedication to the preservation of Ibadan’s cultural values.
The award presentation formed part of activities geared towards setting the tone for the 2026 Ibadan Cultural Festival, an annual celebration that showcases the rich history, traditions, and collective identity of Ibadanland.
The President-General of CCII, Chief (Barr.) Ajeniyi Ajewole, while presenting the award alongside the Chairman of the 2026 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee, Mogaji Moshood Gbolagade Akere, described Hon. O-Otope as a man whose life reflects service, humility, and deep respect for Ibadan heritage.
Chief Ajewole noted that Ibadan must continue to honour individuals who do not only succeed personally but consistently give back to the society.
“Ibadan celebrates those who remember home, who invest in people, and who uphold our values. Hon. O-Otope is one of such men,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the festival’s planning team, Mogaji Akere stated that the 2026 Ibadan Cultural Festival will be more inclusive, culturally immersive, and people-focused, adding that celebrating heritage icons like Hon. O-Otope aligns with the vision of using culture as a tool for unity, education, and development.
The event attracted dignitaries from different sectors, reflecting the broad cultural and social relevance of the occasion. Among those present were the Oyo State Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Mr. Williams Akin-Funminiyi; the Commissioner for Women Affairs; and the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Mr. Wasiu Olatunbosun.
Also in attendance were the Chairman of Solutions FM, Chief Taofeek Adegoke Adegboyega; traditional rulers from Ona Ara Local Government Area; Islamic clerics; Christian leaders; community heads; and notable personalities from across Ibadanland.
Many speakers at the event, including the CCII President-General, described Hon. O-Otope as a compassionate philanthropist, a dependable community supporter, and a man who holds culture in high esteem.
They referenced his various empowerment initiatives, consistent support for vulnerable groups, youth development efforts, and his quiet but impactful humanitarian gestures across several communities.
The ceremony, beyond celebrating Hon. O-Otope, also served as a soft unveiling of the cultural philosophy guiding the 2026 Ibadan Cultural Festival — one rooted in identity, heritage preservation, unity, and sustainable community engagement.
The Committee
assured Ibadan indigenes and lovers of culture that preparations are already underway to deliver a festival that truly reflects the soul of Ibadan.
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