A Street of Honour: Oba-Ile Celebrates Legacy of Oba Joseph Agunbiade as OPU Charts New Path for Community Development
The ancient town of Oba-Ile in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State witnessed a historic and emotionally uplifting moment as one of its most popular and well-tarred streets was officially named after the immediate past Oloba of Oba-Ile, Oba Joseph Agunbiade.
The colourful ceremony, held on Monday, 29th December 2025, took place shortly before the commencement of the Annual General Meeting and end-of-year get-together of the Oba-Ile Progressive Union (OPU). The event attracted sons and daughters of the community from far and near, all gathered to honour service, celebrate unity, and reaffirm their commitment to development.
Speaking at the occasion, the President of the Oba-Ile Progressive Union and Bishop of the Anglican Communion, Bishop (Dr.) Ayodeji Fagbemi, described the event as a moment of reflection, gratitude, and renewed resolve.
“We are here today as sons and daughters of Oba-Ile to pray, to appraise all that we have been doing as a community, and to forge ahead for a greater tomorrow,” he said.
“As president, we shall use everything within our capacity to advance the course of our people. We call on all our sons and daughters, from all walks of life, to join hands together to effect positive and lasting change in the history of our society.”
In his remarks, the Vice President of OPU and Chief Imam of Oba-Ile, Alhaji Dauda Ajigbotoluwa, expressed deep joy over the recognition and emphasized the importance of sustained commitment to community development.
.“We are very happy to be here today. In preparation for the development of our dear community, I will continue to do more,” he said.
.“I want to encourage all our brothers and sisters at home and in the diaspora to keep hope alive and continue making meaningful contributions towards the development of our dear hometown.”
Adding his voice, Mr. Korede Dickson, one of the illustrious sons of Oba-Ile, described the gathering as a timely opportunity to strengthen unity among indigenes, especially during the festive season.
According to him, the celebration served as a platform to bring all sons and daughters together for the collective advancement of the ancient community.
The event was graced by several eminent Nigerians of Oba-Ile origin, including the Bishop of the Anglican Communion, Bishop (Dr.) Ayodeji Fagbemi; former Commissioner for Transport, Otunba Omoniyi Omodara; the first female Head of Service in Ondo State, Chief (Mrs.) Stella Kosemani Kolawole; Comrade Victor Omodara, and many other distinguished personalities.
The naming of the street after Oba Joseph Agunbiade stands as a lasting symbol of honour, gratitude, and inspiration—one that reflects Oba-Ile’s deep respect for leadership, legacy, and its unwavering commitment to progress.