The Akogun Chieftaincy Family of Oke-Ode in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State has put forward a notable academic and media personality, Mr AbdulGaniyu Kunle Akogun, for the prestigious traditional title of Akogun of Oke-Odeland.
The family’s choice was announced following its 2025 Annual Reunion/General Meeting held in Oke-Ode on Sunday, June 8.
According to a statement released by the Secretary of the Akogun Chieftaincy Family Forum, Mr Ismail Akogun, the nomination is awaiting official ratification upon the installation of a new Elesa of Oke-Ode.
Mr Akogun, who currently serves as Director of Corporate Affairs at the University of Ilorin, was described by the family as a bridge between tradition and modernity. “He has not only preserved the values of our forebears but has also given Oke-Ode a voice in national conversations,” the statement read.
The Akogun stool became vacant after the death of Chief AbdulRauf Tunde Akogun, the 6th titleholder, on January 10, 2024. The family emphasized that the title has long been rooted in the Akogun Boogun Compound of Oke-Ode, with a lineage of past holders known for championing the town’s cultural, political, and security interests.
Speaking during the meeting, the Chairman of the Akogun Chieftaincy Family Forum, who is also the Chief Imam of Ifelodun Pako Central Mosque in Lagos, expressed confidence in the nominee. He prayed for a visionary and people-oriented Elesa to emerge soon and called for continued unity and development in Oke-Ode.
“The legacy of the Akogun title is one of leadership and community service. Mr Kunle Akogun has demonstrated these traits consistently. From journalism to public relations, and in his current role at the University of Ilorin, he has opened doors for many youths and promoted Oke-Ode beyond our borders,” he said.
The Akogun-designate is also the National PRO of the Oke-Ode community, a former publicity secretary of the Igbomina Professionals Association, and Vice Chairman of the Igbomina-Ekiti Muslims Forum. Many in the community see his nomination as both symbolic and strategic—ensuring the town’s traditions are upheld while aligning with its aspirations for greater recognition and development.
