A former commissioner for culture and tourism in Ondo state, Mr Yemi Olowolabi has hinted that influential sons and daughters of Idanre are working towards attracting huge investments into the ancient town in addition to making it a world tourist haven.
Mr Olowolabi made this known at his Dorcas Hills Court in Idanre during a forum tagged “An Evening with Osolo”, a gathering to celebrate the custodian of the orosun festival and the Osolo of Idanre community, High chief Ojo Alalabiaye alongside his Aghoros.
The former Commissioner who is the originator of the annual “Ketewa Festival” in Idanre said turning Idanre into an investment hub would go a long way in creating job opportunities for the teeming youths and also place the town on the world map through the popular Idanre hills and the annual Orosun festival.
Mr Olowolabi who is also a former Commissioner for information in Ondo State disclosed that renovation of the symbolic cultural edifices on Idanre hills, perimeter fencing of Ojomu market on the Hilltop, erection of halls and accomodations for the “Aghoros” of Orosun worshippers would be embarked upon to give the facilities a facelift.
The chairman of Idanre Local Government, Prince Kayode Aroloye who was the chief host promised to set up committee that would work out modalities of ensuring a seamless funding and promotion of Orosun Festival through the support of Idanre business community and illustrious indigenes all over the world.
Prince Aroloye said sons and daughters of Idanre were passionate about the rapid development of the ancient town.
Also Speaking at the forum, a director in the Ondo State ministry of culture and tourism, Dr. Olusegun Bajulaye said the Orosun festival was one of the popular and unique festivals in Ondo State calling on Stakeholders to support all efforts to further develop the Idanre hills.
Dr Bajulaye commended Mr Olowolabi for honouring the custodian of Orosun festival describing such gesture as a mark of appreciation and respect for the Idanre culture and tradition.
In a response, the Osolo of Idanre land, High chief Ojo Alalabiaye restated the commitment of the traditional institution towards maintaining and sustaining the Idanre cultural heritage with a view to generating turning the ancient town to a commercial hub of Ondo State through its notable festivals and the Idanre hills.
The event was attended by the aghoros and some Prominent sons of Idanre land.
BY GANIYU AGBELUSI