IKOYI EKITI CELEBRATES TIME-HONORED TRADITION AS EGIRI GROUP GRADUATES TO KOGBOYIBy: Olumide Adebayo (McAnelka)

In the culturally rich town of Ikoyi Ekiti, a significant milestone was achieved on December 6, 2024, as the *Egiri* group successfully completed their 9-year journey and graduated to the Kogboyi stage. This remarkable feat was made possible under the guidance of Chief Sunday Oyebode, the Elegiri who led the group with dedication and wisdom.

The graduation ceremony marked a significant transition for the group, as they embarked on a new 9-year journey as Kogboyi. To commemorate this occasion, a thanksgiving program was held at Saint James Anglican Church, Ikoyi Ekiti, where members of the group gathered to express their gratitude for the success of the previous year's events. The service, led by Reverend Salaoka, also served as an opportunity to commit their future endeavors to the hands of God.

Following the thanksgiving service, the Kogboyi group convened for their inaugural meeting, presided over by the Oisa Egbe, Ojo Olaoye. He warmly greeted the gathering and offered a heartfelt prayer, expressing his gratitude to all for their support and kindness. Ojo Olaoye emphasized the importance of LOVE AND UNITY within the group, encouraging members to feel free to express themselves and to always uphold the values of love and mutual respect.

The meeting was also an opportunity for the group to celebrate their new status as Kogboyi, with Chief Olaleye Tope emerging as the new leader. The gathering was filled with joy and camaraderie as members dined and celebrated together, marking the beginning of their new journey.

During the meeting, the group also took steps to formalize their leadership structure. The community, which is divided into three zones (A, B, and C), also known as Ekù, comprising Ebale, Ukoro, and Erunwa, was represented by elected officials from each zone. The executives were zoned to different Ekù, allowing members from each zone to convene and elect representatives.

The meeting yielded the election of several key officials, including Ogunsakin Babatunde as Secretary, Femi Olomoyo as Ashoka 2, Seun Fagbewesa as the Public Relations Officer (PRO), Sunday Ogundana as Treasurer, Seun Ogundana as Ashipa 1, Seyi Jejelowo as Financial Secretary, and Shola Akinlola as Auditor.

The peer group system in Ikoyi Ekiti is a time-honored tradition that plays a vital role in the town's cultural heritage. The system is designed to foster unity, cooperation, and leadership development among the town's youths. With the blessings and guidance of *His Royal Majesty, Oba Ogundana Akinwande Moses, Oyinyosaye Ikoyi Olatunji 1, the illustrious King of Ikoyi Ekiti Kingdom,* the peer group system has continued to thrive, producing responsible and community-minded individuals who contribute to the town's growth and development.

As the Kogboyi group embarks on their new journey, they are expected to demonstrate the values of leadership, responsibility, and community service that are inherent in the peer group system. With Chief Olaleye Tope at the helm, the group is poised to make a positive impact in Ikoyi Ekiti and beyond.

 This report was compiled through various sources by Olumide Adebayo McAnelka,

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