High Chief Jamiu Olasunkanmi Adesina, the Olisa of Ibeshe Kingdom, has described the maiden edition of the Ibeshe Day Carnival as a historic and unifying moment for the community, expressing deep satisfaction with the level of participation and enthusiasm displayed by indigenes at home and in the diaspora.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with AKAB Media Communications Concept, High Chief Adesina said the carnival, which kicked off yesterday and is scheduled to run until December 20, represents the fulfillment of a long-held dream for the Ibeshe people.
“This is not something behind me; I was here today, seeing everything that is happening. It is a great community and a great festival. We have tried many times in the past to get it right, but today is the best day for me,” he said.
Reflecting on his personal connection to the celebration, the Olisa noted that the joy of the people made the occasion even more meaningful for him.
“I was very happy because I was among the people. I served as a youth leader in Odesu for several years before coming to Ibeshe in 2021. Seeing the happiness across the community, with people coming from abroad—from London, America and other places—to celebrate with us, gives me great joy,” he added.
He further disclosed that while many guests were already present, more were expected to arrive in the coming days. “We have started today, and we are going to end on the 20th of December. Some people are already on ground, and many are still on their way. By the grace of God, they will arrive safely. This is something we must do together, and my advice to everyone is that we should join hands to make this community greater,” Adesina said.
The Olisa also showered praise on the Asiwaju of Ibeshe Kingdom, Chief Kaoli Olatunji Olusanya, crediting him with the vision and determination that birthed the carnival. “Chief Olusanya is a man of integrity, a man of the people. When he became the Asiwaju on December 28 last year, he promised that he would make this community great and that the long-awaited Ibeshe Day would be realized before the end of 2025. Today, we can all see that he has succeeded,” he stated.
Describing the Asiwaju as his mentor and partner, Adesina said, “He is my boss, my brother, and my mentor. We work together, and I am in full support of him. Since he became the Asiwaju, there has been a clear difference in a positive way. By the grace of God, there will be even more achievements.”
He concluded by appreciating the traditional ruler of the kingdom, Kabiyesi Oba Richard Ogunsanya, praying for divine guidance and strength for his reign. “Our King is a good man. I pray that God continues to support him and lead him in the best way for his children and the entire community. He is a great man, and he will remain great forever,” the Olisa said.
