BY ABUSATAR HAMED
Mrs. Omolara Egungbohun, wife of Alhaji (Chief) Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun, Chairman and Chief Executive of IBD Group of Companies, emphasized the importance of unity among Nigerians regardless of their religious affiliations.
Addressing the audience on Monday, December 18, 2023, at the 2023 End of the Year Thanksgiving & Musical Concert organized by IBD Foundation in collaboration with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Ilaro-Yewa Area, Omolara Egungbohun spoke about the harmony in her own interfaith marriage.
Born and raised as a practicing Christian and a member of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Mrs. Omolara expressed gratitude for her husband’s unwavering support despite his practice of Islam.
She highlighted the misconceptions surrounding religion, urging that it should not be a divisive factor in Nigerian society.
“Religion should not create rifts in our united family under one God who answers prayers regardless of faith,” she remarked.
The event, graced by esteemed figures including Oba (Dr.) Kehinde Gbadewole, the Olu of Ilaro and Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, who was represented by some members of the Olu Ilaro-in-Council and various leaders from churches across Ilaro-Yewa, was a jubilant occasion.
Mrs. Egungbohun, in her address, expressed gratitude for the gathering and prayed for continued blessings and good health for all in the coming year.
Mr. Ayodeji O. Alabi, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Ilaro-Yewa Area, welcomed participants and highlighted the unique aspect of this year’s event – the IBD Foundation graciously shouldered all expenses, a departure from previous years of seeking sponsors.
The festive celebration featured captivating performances by gospel music groups, enchanting the audience with soulful renditions. A group of young trumpeters also showcased their talents, adding to the joyous atmosphere, with attendees of all ages joining in a lively dance.
Mrs. Omolara Egungbohun’s background in Christian music and her upbringing in the Gospel Faith Mission and First African Church, nurtured her deep love for Christian music.
Despite her marriage to a devout Muslim, she maintains a strong connection to her Christian heritage.
Her participation in the 2023 End of the Year Thanksgiving & Musical Concert was a testament to her commitment to honouring God’s faithfulness in her life and family.
Educationally, Mrs. Egungbohun pursued her studies, obtaining her National Diploma (ND) from the then Ondo State Polytechnic, now Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo. Subsequently, she earned her Higher National Diploma (HND) from Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro-Yewa, Ogun State, followed by an MSc degree from the NOUN University.
Members of the Olu Ilaro-in-Council were led to the event by prominent figures including Chief E.A Sanu, the Ekerin Olu Ilaro-Yewa; Chief (TPL) Taofeek Fagbenro, the Asipa Olu Ilaro-Yewa; Chief (Elhadj) AbuSatar Idowu Hamed, the Otun Baaroyin of Ilaro-Yewa; Chief (Mrs.) Adunni Onifade, the Otun Iya Ewe of Ilaro-Yewa; Chief (Alhaja) Chief (Mrs.) Sekinat Alaba Adewunmi, the Yeye Oge of Ilaro-Yewa; Omooba Adegoke A. Olusoji, Administrative Secretary, Olu Ilaro-in-Council and Queen Aduragbemi Sunday, Sisi Ilaro-Yewa.