Big win for community pride as Ijesa indigenes in Texas elect 9th President

The Egbe Omo Obokun of Ijesaland, Houston Chapter, recorded a historic moment on Sunday as members elected their 9th President and a new executive council in an atmosphere filled with emotion, applause, and strong sense of community pride.

Honourable Gbenga Ekundare, widely known as Baba Ijesa, emerged as President after Honourable David Adebayo withdrew from the race, ending what had been a spirited contest for the association’s top leadership position.

Ekundare’s election was unanimous, reflecting broad support across the association.

Other elected members include Mrs Oluyemisi Aofolaju, Vice President, Dr. Johnson Ogedengbe, General Secretary, Honorable Yomi Thomas Treasurer while Honorable Kayode Adelowokan emerged as the Public Relations Officer in-charge of Media and Publicity with Honorable Babatunde Peters as the Public Relations Officer for General Duties.

Honorable Adeniran Adeoye was returned unopposed as Social Secretary with Honorable Oluseun Alaba as Assistant Social Secretary.

Hon. Ekundare, President-elect

Honorable Busuyi Johnson was elected as Welfare Secretary and Mrs Christy Arogunjo as Welfare Secretary 2.

Mr Jide Olowe emerged as the Chief Whip of the association.

In his acceptance speech, Honorable Ekundare expressed humility and gratitude, describing his emergence as “divine “My emergence belongs to every Ijesa son and daughter here.”

The President-elect extended heartfelt appreciation to the Electoral Committee for its fairness, fellow contestants for a cordial and healthy race, and the elders and founding members for their continuous guidance.

Outlining his administration’s direction, the President-Elect reaffirmed that the association is more than a social group, describing it as “family, identity, and legacy.”

He announced that his leadership would focus on five core pillars of uniting all members. “Cultural Preservation and Heritage Promotion, Welfare and Member Support, Transparent and Accountable Leadership, Partnerships and Community Outreach”, he affirmed.

Ekundare called for unity, urging members to set aside past differences and collaborate on a shared vision for progress. “A united community can build a strong presence that is respected both locally and internationally,” he said.

“No obstacle is insurmountable when we act together,” he emphasized.