The Iralepo of Isinkan, Oba Oluwagbemiga Olofin ADIMULA (Arulewolasi III) has promised to work with notable sons and daughters of the community, the Ondo State government and other stakeholders to repackage traditional festivals in the community to meet international standard.
The Monarch who spoke with Journalists in his Palace in Isinkan said “since I have been crowned, discussions have been opened with several stakeholders on how to develop the community and one of the options before us is the repackaging of traditional festivals for export”.
Affirming that the typical festival remains a veritable way of life for the people, the Iralepo maintained that Isinkan has very unique festivals that can favourably compete with others around the world if properly developed and packaged.
“There are 401 days in the traditional year of Isinkan. The modern year however has about 365 days. Now, the Iralepo by tradition observed daily ‘iba’ and ceremony to either a deity or a principle on each of the 401 days except one. This means, every single one of the 365 modern days has a deity or a principle and therefore a unique ceremony attached to it.
“Any of these with an epic historical significance and convivial ethos remain a potential global festival.
“I can confidently tell you that we have tourists attractions in this land with epic historical significance. These will be worked on for the benefit of all.”
“When we are through, the traditional festivals would draw tourists and fun seekers to Isinkan and the state capital which will invariably galvanize the state’s economy.”
“Festival organisers, stakeholders and general members of the public are extremely positive about festivals as a vehicle for social cohesion, artistic development, economic enrichment and as a viable business.”
“Africa has also been tagged a festival continent as year in year out, towns and villages witness cultural festivals throughout the year. We ‘ll leverage this ranking and better the lots of people.”
