By Adelanke Akinmoladun
The Ojomu of Idanre Kingdom, High Chief Akinloye Akinboni, has performed his first new Yam Festival of the year 2024, marking the official commencement of his traditional duty as the Ojomu of Idanre land.
As the third in command in the Idanre traditional hierarchy, High Chief Akinboni holds the cultural authority to perform the traditional rites that permit the consumption and sale of new yam in the community. In accordance with longstanding customs, no member of the community is allowed to eat or sell new yam until the Ojomu conducts the ceremonial rituals.
Highlighting the significance of the event, High Chief Akinboni stated that the rites began with rituals at Oke Idanre, followed by visits to symbolic locations including Yaba Junction in Odode Idanre and local market squares. The rituals were conducted alongside members of the Aghoro Ojomu group, who accompanied him throughout the community.
During the celebration, High Chief Akinboni prayed for peace, prosperity, and progress across all sectors of the Idanre community as the new yam season begins.
High Chief Adeji Akinfolarin, the Yeyelobun of Idanre Kingdom, expressed her satisfaction with the community’s choice of High Chief Akinboni, praying for a peaceful and prosperous tenure.
Mr. Ayodeji Betiku (Baba Oba) emphasized the sacredness of the New Yam Festival in Idanre, reaffirming that only the Ojomu has the traditional right to initiate the festival, without which the consumption or sale of new yam is strictly forbidden.
Mr. Frederick Akintola noted that the chieftaincy title of Ojomu is rotational between the Akinrujomu and Akinboni families, with the current Ojomu, High Chief Akinboni, representing the Akinboni lineage.
The festival was graced by the presence of his children, Ajibolare and Olamilekan Akinboni, who joined in celebrating their father’s role in upholding the tradition.
In the meantime, High Chief Akinloye Akinboni is prepared for this year New Yam Festival, an annual celebration reinforcing the cultural heritage and spiritual unity of the Idanre people.
Omolola Akinbo reporting for Platinum TV.
