Ikorodu Oga Development Association (IKODASS), the umbrella body of all social clubs and trade associations in Ikorodu town has unveiled its 2020 Ikorodu Oga Day celebration logo and low-key programmes of event to the general public.
The formal unveiling event was held on Tuesday, 27th October at the Ikorodu Town Hall office of the organization when the body briefed members of the press and media in Ikorodu community.
Addressing the press, on behalf of IKODASS Chairman, Otunba Ganiyu Abiru, IKODASS Deputy Chairman, Alh Kolawole Fatai noted that this year’s event has assumed a wider dimension, occassioned by the global Covid-19 pandemic that has ravaged the entire world.
‘You will agree with me that this yearly event has assumed a wider dimension and indeed it has become a tourist attraction event, not only in Ikorodu Kingdom but also in Lagos State. I want to reiterate that this year’s event based on the prevailing circumstances not only in Nigeria but all over the world, will be marked through on a relatively low- key. Unlike the previous years, this year will be without the usual glitz and glamour.
Alh Kolawole further explained that ‘this year’s celebration will however be marked with three events to keep the spirit of celebration alive. The three major events are: Commissioning of Boreholes / Generators for the three Primary Schools. (Ikorodu Central, Ikorodu North and Ikorodu West). Provision of School Uniforms/ Bursary for indigent pupils within Ikorodu Community and finally, a Public Lecture with entitled “Ikorodu-Double Pursuit of Socio-Economic and Political relevance” which will be held on the 21st November 2020 at Ikorodu Town Hall’.
‘The effects of the Covid-19 pandemic have been overwhelming and the disease has redefined our Socio-economic and even political lives and therefore our theme for this year’s event has been carefully chosen to be in sync with the mood of the Nation. The theme is “MITIGATING THE SCOURGE OF COVID-19 PANDEMIC THROUGH OUR CULTURAL HERITAGE” .
He explained that, ‘Culture should not be viewed from the narrow perspective, as culture is all embracing and defines the totality of our being. People usually think that when we talk of culture, it is restricted to dancing, drumming and showcasing our deities of a given Community, but it is in culture that ordinances and regulations are laid down for the social life of the community. It is our belief therefore that a reversion to our culture in terms of cleanliness, obedience to authority’s regulation, good neighbourliness, love, etc to mention a few will eventually bring an end to the scourge’, he asserted.
He added that, IKODASS as an institution aimed at enhancing and upholding our culture, will continue to agitate for accelerated development of Ikorodu Community, through the promotion of the community’s cultural heritage.
While unveiling the 2020 celebration logo, Mr Kolawole stated that, the exercise was in line with the usual practice, every yearly celebration is marked with a special logo and the logo for year 2020 Oga day was formally unveilede to the admiration of all present.
The IKODASS Deputy Chiarman also used the opportunity to thank both indigenes and non-indigenes who have since the inception of the yearly cultural activities been extending their moral and financial support to the successes recorded in hosting the event. He equally appealed to Ikorodu sons and daughters who have not been identifying with this unifying event to please do so.
The compressed edition of the annual 2020 Ikorodu Oga Day celebration is slated to hold between November 19-21, 2020.