The National President of Omo Ibile Igbomina, Sir Bisi Fakayode, recently hosted Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, the presidential candidate of the Accord party, on a courtesy visit to the Omo Ibile Igbomina House in Ganmo, Kwara state. During the visit, both personalities reflected on their longstanding relationship and the development of the Igbomina institution. They also discussed the wider question of national unity and how it can be achieved.
Dr. Hashim drew from his personal connection with Igbomina, describing the region's longstanding tradition of cultural accommodation and peaceful coexistence as a valuable lesson for Nigeria's nation-building project. He noted that Igbomina communities have historically coexisted with settlements and communities of people from different ethnic backgrounds. This, he believes, is essential for promoting national unity and understanding.
Fakayode conducted Hashim on a tour of the Igbomina House, showcasing various renovation, rehabilitation, and improvement projects undertaken under his leadership. The projects aim to upgrade the facilities and create a more conducive environment for the Igbomina people. Hashim expressed appreciation for the opportunity to see the projects firsthand and commended Fakayode for the transformation taking place at Igbomina House.
Fakayode expressed gratitude for Hashim's longstanding support and encouragement, recalling that he was among the first three prominent supporters of the present Omo Ibile Igbomina leadership from its formative stage. He described Hashim as a friend, supporter, and valued stakeholder of Igbomina, despite his ancestral origin being outside present-day Kwara state.
Hashim acknowledged the progress recorded under Fakayode's leadership and encouraged the Omo Ibile Igbomina leadership to remain committed to strengthening the institution and advancing the collective interests of the Igbomina people. He also reflected on Fakayode's journey from public service and local government leadership to his present position as national president of Omo Ibile Igbomina.
Beyond the immediate purpose of the visit, Hashim said his connection with Igbomina was deeply personal. He explained that although his ancestral roots lie in Yauri, he has long regarded Igbominaland as home, having been raised within an Igbomina family that lived in New Bussa, Niger state. This upbringing shaped his understanding of community, identity, and belonging.
The visit by Dr. Hashim is seen as a significant move, especially with the 2027 elections approaching. As the Accord party's presidential candidate, Hashim's connection with Igbomina and his appreciation for the region's cultural traditions may play a crucial role in his campaign. The Omo Ibile Igbomina institution has a large following in Kwara state and beyond.
Key points
- Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, Accord party's presidential candidate, visits Omo Ibile Igbomina House in Kwara state, strengthening his connection with the institution.
- Hashim commends Sir Bisi Fakayode for the transformation at Igbomina House and encourages the leadership to remain committed to the institution's growth.
- The visit highlights the importance of cultural accommodation and peaceful coexistence in Nigeria's nation-building project.
