The Onimeko of Imeko, Oba Benjamin Alabi Olanite Oyeditan, has urged the Federal Government to establish higher education and healthcare institutions in the border community of Imeko. He made the call ahead of this year’s Agbinrekoti Festival, which aims to preserve Imeko’s cultural heritage and draw attention to its development needs. The monarch highlighted Imeko's historical significance as a frontier headquarters and its strategic location, which justifies greater federal investment.
Imeko, established as a frontier headquarters in 1899, has historically served as a centre covering the area from Badagry to Shaki. The town's association with the Customs Service, immigration, police, and other border agencies further justifies the need for federal investment. Oba Oyeditan emphasized that Imeko's status as a border town necessitates a Federal Medical Centre, citing the need for adequate healthcare infrastructure.
The monarch also appealed for the establishment of a Federal College of Agriculture and Development Studies in Imeko, noting that the area is predominantly agrarian and relies heavily on communal and missionary efforts for education. He urged the Federal Government to consider a bill sponsored by Senator Solomon Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, seeking the establishment of the institution. This, he believes, will provide the community with access to higher education.
In addition to educational institutions, Oba Oyeditan renewed his call for the rehabilitation of Federal Road 102, which links Abeokuta and Imeko. He described the road as an important international route and emphasized that improved road infrastructure would boost agriculture, facilitate the movement of goods, and encourage industrial investment in the area. The monarch also requested the construction of an additional 15-kilometre link connecting Imeko to the newly approved frontier road corridor.
The Agbinrekoti Festival, conceived to preserve Imeko's history and cultural identity, will also host representatives of Imeko Ketu in the Republic of Benin. The monarch described the visitors as part of the wider Ketu community, linked to Imeko by a shared history and cultural heritage. The festival aims to promote cultural exchange and understanding between the communities across the border.
The monarch also addressed tensions between border communities and customs officials, linking some difficulties to the history of the Ketu people. He explained that the traditional Ketu kingdom was divided by colonial boundaries, and Imeko residents and Ketu communities across the border continue to regard themselves as part of the same historical and cultural community. This sometimes complicates enforcement of restrictions on the movement of goods and people.
Reflecting on his 12 years on the throne, Oba Oyeditan said his administration had focused on protecting the community's land and history while pursuing development through government and private initiatives. He described his leadership style as liberal, preferring consultation to authoritarian decision-making. The monarch expressed optimism about the community's progress, stating that they are not yet where they want to be but are moving forward.
Key points
- Oba Oyeditan calls for federal institutions and road development in Imeko community.
- The Agbinrekoti Festival aims to preserve Imeko's cultural heritage and promote unity among Ketu communities.
- The monarch seeks to improve security and infrastructure in Imeko through government and private initiatives.
