The ancient town of Ilara in Eredo Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Lagos State, has been aglow with celebrations as residents and dignitaries marked the 5th Coronation Anniversary of His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Olufolarin Olukayode Ogunsanwo, Telade IV.
EpeInsights reports that for many, the milestone is more than a ceremonial remembrance; it is a reflection of a reign that has fostered peace, unity, and measurable progress in a community with deep historical roots.
In a goodwill message on behalf of the people of Eredo LCDA, the Executive Chairman, Hon. Ismail Monsuru Akinloye, described the monarch’s leadership as a fountain of peace, progress, and unity that has brought pride and honour to Ilara Kingdom and beyond.
He commended Oba Ogunsanwo for his unwavering commitment to the welfare of his people and for steering the kingdom through a transformative period marked by social, economic and cultural advancements.
According to Akinloye, the monarch’s wisdom, compassion and foresight have set a golden standard for traditional leadership, proving that the role of a king extends far beyond ceremony into tangible service for the community.
Since ascending the throne in 2020, Oba Ogunsanwo’s reign has been characterised by deliberate efforts to uplift the socio-economic landscape of Ilara.
In the education sector, his support for scholarship schemes, school upgrades, and learning initiatives has inspired many young people to pursue academic excellence.
Culturally, his reign has breathed new life into traditional festivals, heritage sites and communal practices, strengthening the community’s identity and creating opportunities for tourism.
Economically, his encouragement of local enterprise, vocational training, and market development has boosted livelihoods, while his advocacy for improved infrastructure has contributed to better roads, renovated public spaces and enhanced amenities within the LCDA.
These achievements resonate strongly with the Lagos State government’s wider development vision, which seeks to balance urban growth with sustainable, community-driven progress.
They also mirror global priorities such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in promoting quality education, decent work and sustainable communities.
Beyond the physical and economic strides, the Alara’s palace has become a symbol of dialogue, reconciliation, and collective problem-solving.
Under his leadership, disputes have been resolved amicably, diverse groups have been brought together in unity, and the social bonds within the kingdom have been strengthened despite the pressures of rapid urbanisation around Lagos.
As the celebrations unfolded with colourful cultural displays, thanksgiving services, and community gatherings, the atmosphere in Ilara was one of gratitude and hope. For residents, the anniversary was not just a moment to look back on the past five years but also an opportunity to reaffirm their shared vision for the future.
Hon. Akinloye concluded his tribute with prayers for the monarch’s continued good health, divine wisdom, and a reign that will keep inspiring pride in the hearts of his people.
For many in Ilara, the first five years of Oba Ogunsanwo’s reign are viewed as the foundation for an enduring legacy, one that blends tradition with modern development and sets the kingdom on a path toward a future of prosperity, cultural vibrancy and unity.
