The Oyo State government on Monday in Ibadan said it has adopted the “Alaragbo” deity festival as part of efforts to use culture and tourism to enhance the state’s economy.
The state’s Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Wasiu Olatunbosun, told newsmen that government would not relent in efforts towards promoting all existing cultural festivals in the state.
“The present administration in the state will continue to showcase, develop and preserve the cultural heritage of the state.
“Government will do this by collaborating with relevant stakeholders and dieties’ adherents to repackage and redefine various cultural festivals to UNESCO standard,” he said.
Speaking on the 2024 Alaragbo International Cultural Festival, the commissioner said ‘Alaragbo’ was “a strong deity that stands on its own”.
“This is also the arrow head that brings together all the ‘Egbes’ (societies).”
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He disclosed that the festival’s grand finale would hold on November 17 at Ayegun Oleyo-Ibadan, in the Oluyole local government area of Oyo State.
Olatunbosun said the festival would serve as a platform to boost cultural tourism in the state.
“It will also draw participants, adherents and devotees from all walks of life including those in the diaspora.
“Also, the festival will feature many activities, such as spiritual appeasement, and rituals.”
In her remarks at the occasion, the priestess of Alaragbo deity, Chief Osunbunmi Ifasemilore, said Alaragbo was a deity of covenant fulfillment and a lively spiritual entity.
Ifasemilore appreciated the state government for adopting the festival, saying the development would enhance government efforts in promoting culture and tourism.
Source: NAN
