.. As Engineer Tajudeen Becomes Atayese of Isan Ekiti Kingdom
By Joseph Sunday
Advertisement
The Onisan of Isan Ekiti Kingdom, Oba Gabriel Ayodele Adejuwon, Adetila Ilufemiloye I, has hailed the Governor of Ekiti State, Mr Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji for approving the construction of Isan to Ipere road, just as he installed Engineer Adigun Tajudeen Raheem Siyanbola as the Atayese of Isan Ekiti Kingdom.
The Kabiyesi gave the remarks on Saturday during the 33rd Isan Ekiti Unity Day celebration which coincided with his birthday date held at his palace ground.
Oba Gabriel Adejuwon, in his own address, thanked God and the people of Isan-Ekiti for their unwavering support.
He highlighted the town’s steady growth, noting that the progress achieved is as a result of cooperation among the residents, leaders, and supporters across Nigeria and beyond.
Advertisement
The monarch acknowledged the contributions of individuals and institutions toward the major projects, including the ₦200 million Abulesoro Civic Center, describing the financial support from the sons and daughters as well as friends of the community as remarkable.
He also commended the state government for approving the Isan–Ipere road project, which is expected to ease mobility and boost economic activity of the ancient community.
Former Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, led the dignitaries at the event.
He praised the Onisan for consistently uniting the indigenes at home and abroad and acknowledged the contributions of past and present community leaders.
Fayemi emphasized that the celebration reflects the community’s progress and the importance of collective efforts in driving development.
Advertisement
He also acknowledged the presence of his wife, the Erelu of Isan Ekiti, Erelu Bisi Fayemi, and extended respect to everyone contributing to the town’s growth.
Representing Governor Biodun Oyebanji, the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Abbibat Adubiaro, conveyed the governor’s appreciation to all attendees.
She reaffirmed the state government’s commitment towards supporting initiatives that enhance the social and economic well-being of the community.
One of the day’s key highlights was the conferment of the honorary Chieftaincy titled Atayese of Isan Kingdom on Engineer Tajudeen Raheem Adigun, popularly known as Omo Siyanbola Onikoyi.
Advertisement
Speaking on the title, the brand new Atayese of Isan Ekiti Kingdom, an Engineer by profession, affirmed how his life reflects one that is dedicated to service, humanity and the development of his own community, promising to continue contributing to Isan Polytechnic and other local projects that will promote the development of the Isan Ekiti community.
Speaking during the ceremony, Engineer Tajudeen Raheem Adigun, the newly installed Atayese of Isan Ekiti Kingdom, emphasized that the true community development requires vision, commitment, and a focus on humanity.
He noted that the industrialization of Isan Ekiti community is germane in his heart, believing that it would present opportunities for Ekiti State and assured the community that necessary improvements of the Isan Polytechnic would be pursued.
His investiture was warmly applauded, with many describing it as a well-deserved recognition of his family’s long-standing contributions to education, community-building, and the overall progress of Isan-Ekiti.
Leaders also used the opportunity to address the youth, urging them to avoid drug abuse and pursue education, skills acquisition, and take advantage of the productive opportunities provided by Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji.
Advertisement
Young people were encouraged to take advantage of government empowerment programmes, including the MSME ICT Skills Hub, which offers digital and remote-work training, and the “Bring Back the Youth in Agriculture” initiative, aimed at promoting profitable farming through modern techniques and agro-processing. The new Isan Polytechnic was celebrated as a major milestone in education and local economic growth.
The 33rd Unity Day was concluded with vibrant cultural displays, music, traditional dances, and colorful attire.
The Planning Committee Chairperson, Yeye Yetunde Foluso, praised the teamwork of the various Committees behind the success of the event and reiterated the committee’s commitment to promoting culture, infrastructure development, and human capital growth in the town.
Advertisement
For many attendees, the day not only celebrated Isan-Ekiti’s heritage but also positioned the community for greater development and prosperity in the years ahead.
The Isan Ekiti unity day event also feature the public presentation of the winner of Miss Isan Ekiti Day 2025 competitions, won by Miss Abioye Olajumoke.
The annual event attracted indigenous from across Nigeria and the diaspora, traditional leaders, political figures, and friends of the community, creating a vibrant mix of tradition, development updates, and cultural festivity.