A Non-governmental organization, Okarufe Cultural Foundation (OCF), has donated food and gift items to over 1,000 residents of the Oka-Akoko community in Akoko South-West Local Government Area of Ondo State, as part of its contribution to the celebration of the annual Oka day.
Apart from the food items, which include rice and other food items, the foundation also donated an ultra-modern wheelchair to a physically challenged woman, while cash was given out to others during activities marking the New yam festival in the ancient town.
Speaking on the donation, the President of OCF, Chief Akinrogun Alaba Yusuf, said the foundation supported the people with food items and cash to showcase the organisation’s dedication to community welfare.
Yusuf said the donation serves as part of efforts to cushion the effect of the economic hardship and to put smiles on the faces of the beneficiaries.
He emphasised that the foundation is committed to unity, welfare and compassion, reflecting the true spirit of the new yam festival season.
The OCF President said, “In times past, the foundation has provided cash for the renovation of the Judiciary Building in Oka; released N2m as a deposit for the land for building Divisional Police Headquarters in Oka
“We also purchased an international flight ticket to a needy Oka student for their Ph.D program in USA and donated N1.4m to renovate the burnt house of a farmer.
“Currently, OCF is giving essential foodstuffs to about 1000 attendees of Oka Day 2024. These free foodstuffs consist of rice, vegetable oil, and 65 crates of customized bottled water.
“Secondly, we are recognizing three talented Oka-born musicians: two female and a male – Lady Sarah Oluwasesin (Ebo Quarter), Mrs. Florence Patrick (Owalusin) and Mr. Taiwo Ejire.
Speaking during the celebration to mark the New Yam Festival, Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, commended the people of the community towards the development in Oka Akoko, assuring that the government will continue to do its best to cater for the peace-loving people.
He said, “Let me say that I am proud to see the progress you have made together as a community. Yours is a shining example of what can be achieved when we work together towards a common goal.
“I want to acknowledge the tireless efforts of your community leaders, volunteers, and residents who have contributed to the growth and success of Oka Day. Your dedication and commitment are the driving forces behind this monumental progress.
“As we celebrate today, let us also look to the future. Let us continue to build a community that is inclusive, equitable, and just for all.
“Let us work together to address the challenges we face and seize the opportunities that lie ahead.
“It is essential for us to assure you that our administration is committed to supporting our communities’ continued growth and development.
“We shall continue to invest in initiatives that benefit our residents, support local businesses, and enhance our quality of life.
“Apart from this, we remain committed to our constitutional mandate of providing for the welfare and security of the people of Ondo State.
The paramount ruler of the community, HRM Oba (Dr) Yusuf Adebori Adeleye, appreciated the sons and daughters of the community for their support and cooperation with the traditional institutions and security agencies to strengthen the security in Oka.
He hailed the indigenes of the community over the triumphant return of First Bank to the area, saying it will go a long way to reduce the burden of traders and businessmen and women.
Oba. Adebori lauded the leadership of the Foundation in various ways they have lessened the burden of residents in precarious socio-economic situations.
The monarch stressed that OCF has extended hands of help to distressed residents in dire need at different times, thus strengthening the bond of unity and love in his domain.
The Vice Chancellor of Sam Maris University, Prof. Francis Gbore, OCF Provost, assured residents that the Foundation would leave no stone unturned to better the lives of through people-centred and transparent charitable activities.
One of the beneficiaries of the cash gifts, the physically challenged Mrs. Patrick expressed heartfelt appreciation to the BoT and Executive and members of the foundation for their kind gestures.
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