DMV Ekimogun Association (USA) celebrates Osemawe of Ondo on Odun Oba festival

…urges youths to shun social vices

By Gbolahan Salman

The DMV Ekimogun Association, USA chapter, has joined the people of Ondo Kingdom in celebrating this year’s Odun Oba Festival, a revered cultural event that honours the Osemawe and the rich traditions of the Ondo people.

In a goodwill message released by the association’s Public Relations Officer, Engr. Tommy Akinbinu (WORLDHERO), the leadership of the group congratulated the Osemawe and Paramount Ruler of Ondo Kingdom, Oba (Dr.) Victor Adesimbo Kiladejo, Jilo III, on the successful celebration of the age-long festival.

Speaking on behalf of the President, Mr. Ben Akinnle, and the Vice President, Mr. Rotimi Akinkugbe,  offered prayers for the monarch’s continued good health, long life, and a peaceful reign.

“We celebrate our royal father, the Osemawe, Oba (Dr) Victor Kiladejo, on this auspicious Odun Oba festival. May his reign continue to bring peace, unity, and progress to Ondo Kingdom,” he stated.

The association also extended warm greetings to the High Chiefs—Eha’e, Upojis, Ekules, Ujamas—as well as all sons and daughters of Ondo, both at home and in the diaspora, wishing them joy and blessings during the festive period.

Additionally, the DMV Ekimogun Association expressed optimism and prayers for a successful Ondo Ekimogun Day celebration, slated for December 2025, encouraging all to look forward to the event with unity and pride.

In a significant part of the message, the association addressed the youth, urging them to steer clear of violence, cultism, drug abuse, and other social vices that threaten the peace and future of the community.

“Young people must understand that an idle mind is the devil’s workshop. Let us all strive to build a better Ondo by embracing discipline, responsibility, and community spirit,” Akinbinu passionately advised.

The message concluded with a traditional benediction: “Aigho ‘o du’do a gbe wa oo”, meaning “May peace and prosperity dwell among us.”

The Odun Oba Festival remains a vibrant symbol of Ondo Kingdom’s cultural identity, bringing people together in celebration of heritage, leadership, and unity. The DMV Ekimogun Association’s participation from abroad underscores the enduring bond between the Ondo diaspora and their ancestral roots.