By Ghazali Ibrahim
Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru, representing Lagos East Senatorial District, has called on the younger generation to uphold the legacy of their forebears by channeling the same courage that defined Ikorodu’s warriors into education, innovation, and enterprise.
Speaking as the Chairman of the 2025 Jaiyesimi Day Celebration held in Ikorodu, the senator said that “the future battles of our people will not be fought with swords and shields, but with knowledge, unity, and creativity.”
The annual event, organized by the Madariola Jaiyesimi Descendants Royal Family, celebrated the life and legacy of Omoba Balogun Mabogaje Jaiyesimi (1801–1901) — the revered Balogun of Ikorodu who led the historic Ikorodu/Egba War of 1865 and secured victory for his people.
Abiru, whose lineage shares ancestral ties with the Madariola branch of the Jaiyesimi family, described the celebration as “a powerful reminder of heritage, courage, and the unbroken bond that ties us to our past.”
“Balogun Jaiyesimi’s story is one of selfless love and defense of community. His courage secured Ikorodu’s survival and greatness, and it is now our duty to protect that legacy through progress and unity,” Abiru said.
The event featured the unveiling of a statue in honor of Balogun Jaiyesimi and the presentation of a new biography, “Balogun Mabogaje Jaiyesimi (1801–1901): Biography of a Legendary Icon and Great Warrior”, authored by Dr. Henry Bandele Ogunjewo.
Abiru commended the family’s decision to renovate the historic Balogun Jaiyesimi Palace, describing it as a noble gesture toward preserving Ikorodu’s cultural heritage.
He reaffirmed his commitment to community development, emphasizing that heritage and modernization must progress side by side.
“The legacy of Balogun Mabogaje Jaiyesimi reminds us that every generation must rise to its own challenge,” he said.
“Ours is to build with knowledge, foster innovation, and strengthen unity.”
In his remarks, Otunba Olaniyi Ajadi Banjoko, the Asiwaju Omoba Balogun Jaiyesimi, expressed deep gratitude to Senator Abiru for his leadership and continuous support toward the family and the success of the event.
The grand celebration was attended by an array of traditional rulers and dignitaries, including HRM Oba (Dr.) Kabir Adewale Shotobi, the Ayangbure of Ikorodu; HRM Oba Engr. Bashir Aremu Sotonwa, the Sekumade of Ipakodo Kingdom; representatives of the Akarigbo of Remoland, and several other royal fathers and prominent community leaders.
The 2025 Jaiyesimi Day, beyond celebrating a heroic past, became a platform to redefine what courage means for the modern generation.
