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… Call For Proper Utilization Of Boreholes
BY ABU-SATAR HAMED
ILARO-YEWA, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA – A call has been made to the sons and daughters of Ilaro and the Yewa area of Ogun State to always remember their birthplace, no matter where they may be, by supporting the government in providing essential amenities for the community.
This advice was given on Friday, February 7, 2025, by the Olu of Ilaro and Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, Oba (Dr.) Kehinde Gbadewole Adeboye Olugbenle, Asade Agunloye IV, during the commissioning of two water boreholes for two communities in Ilaro Town.
The two boreholes were constructed at the Corner Idi-Ero/Papanla Compound and Onanla Quarters area of Ilaro-Yewa, Ogun State, through the efforts of the Ilaro Descendants Union (IDU), UK Chapter.
Representing Oba Olugbenle at the event, the Ekarun of Olu Ilaro-Yewa, Chief Tajudeen Akinbami, lauded the efforts of the IDU UK Chapter and urged other diaspora groups to emulate their philanthropic initiative.
He emphasized that their contribution was a testament to their commitment to the development of their homeland.
As the current Chairman of the Ogun State Council of Obas, Oba Olugbenle urged beneficiaries of the borehole projects to use them wisely.
He stressed that water is vital for human survival and that the project was intended to improve their living conditions.
The monarch also cautioned the community members against actions that could make the donors regret their generosity. He advised them to ensure proper maintenance and responsible usage of the facilities.
Oba Olugbenle commended the President of the IDU UK Chapter, Prince Abayomi Olanipekun-Okoya, and his team for their dedication. He prayed for their continued prosperity, guidance, and protection.
Chief Akinbami issued a stern warning to the beneficiary communities, urging them not to turn the borehole sites into battlegrounds. He emphasized that individuals should fetch water in an orderly manner to prevent conflicts.
Chief (Mrs.) Afusat Odunfa, the Iyalode of Ilaro-Yewa, expressed her gratitude to the donors and encouraged other privileged sons and daughters of Ilaro, both at home and abroad, to contribute to the development of their hometown. She prayed that God would reward the donors abundantly.
Chief (Mrs.) Adunni Onifade, the Otun Iya-Ewe of Ilaro-Yewa, acknowledged the significance of water and praised the donors for their generosity. She described the borehole project as an expression of love for their homeland.
Elder Olatunkanmi Ojo, head of the Papanla Olaogun Family, expressed his delight over the borehole project.
He noted that it would alleviate the struggles of residents from Isaledomo, Surulere, Oju-Okeke, and Kerelodi areas of Ilaro, who previously had to walk long distances to fetch water.
Elder Oyeniyi Ojo, a retired Nigeria Custorms Service officer who played a key role in the execution of the projects, revealed that the Papanla family had procured a prepaid meter to ensure the efficient operation of the borehole at Corner Idi-Ero area of Ilaro.
Mr. Ramoni Rasaki, speaking on behalf of the Onanla community, extended his gratitude to the donors and facilitators and prayed for their continued blessings.
Several community leaders, including Alhaji (Prince) Lamidi Elegbede, Madam Omolabake Odutola, Princess Basirat Salako, Mr. Sangosina, Mr. Fabunmi Oluwabunmi, Prince Mufutau Tella, Mrs. Adisa Olaonipekun, Sister Folasade Edun, Elder Zachariya Akerele, and Mr. Tunji Adeyemi, offered advice on the proper maintenance of the boreholes to ensure their longevity.
The event anchor, Elhadj (Otunba) Abu-Satar Idowu Hamed, emphasized that members of the IDU UK Chapter are dedicated sons and daughters of Ilaro who believe in giving back to their roots. He noted that their initiatives have significantly improved the lives of their people.
In his address, the President of IDU UK Chapter, Prince Abayomi Olanipekun-Okoya, expressed his appreciation to Oba Olugbenle for his unwavering support.
He highlighted the monarch’s guidance in ensuring that the association had a meaningful impact on the community.
Fielding a question through online interview, Prince Abayomi Olanipekun-Okoya reaffirmed his commitment to the development of Ilaro and Yewaland as a whole.
He detailed the association’s various initiatives, including school outreaches, educational support through the provision of chairs, tables, and books, as well as their involvement in the annual Oroona Ilaro Festival by sponsoring Bolojo performances.
He reassured that IDU UK remains committed to supporting their people, especially during the economic hardship in Nigeria, and prayed for better days ahead.
