The Amapetu and paramount ruler of Mahinland in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, Oba Segun Williams Akinyomi, has commenced the 2025 Ere Festival with a medical outreach and the empowerment of widows in the community.
According to a statement by the Chief Press Officer at the palace, Akingbade Toluwa-Jolomi, the exercise, which was held in the community and had participants from across Ilaje land, was aimed at improving healthcare for the people and promoting the economic empowerment of widows.
The statement reads: “The Ere Festival is a cherished cultural celebration where the Amapetu performs sacred rites, offering prayers and sacrifices to the deities for the prosperity and protection of Mahinland and its people.
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“Alongside these traditional observances, the festival fosters communal bonding, featuring vibrant displays of Ilaje heritage, music, dance, and traditional cuisine.
“This year, however, Oba Segun Williams Akinyomi introduced a transformative element prioritising healthcare and economic support for vulnerable groups.
“The medical outreach, led by former Commissioner for Health Dr Banji Ajaka, saw a team of medical professionals and volunteers providing essential services to hundreds of residents.
“The initiative was made possible through generous donations from supporters within and outside Ondo State, alongside the monarch’s personal contributions of medical equipment, drugs, and supplies.
“In a touching display of compassion, the festival also included a widows’ empowerment programme, offering financial and material support to uplift women in the community. This initiative aligns with Oba Akinyomi’s vision of fostering inclusive growth and solidarity among the people of Mahinland.
“As the festival progresses, sons and daughters of Mahinland, both at home and in the diaspora, are expected to gather in celebration of their shared heritage.
“The Amapetu’s innovative approach, merging tradition with impactful humanitarian efforts, has set a new standard for the Ere Festival, ensuring it remains a beacon of unity, progress, and cultural pride.”
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