People of Modakeke in Ife East Area Office have lamented poor infrastructural development in the town, while calling on the government at all levels to look towards upgrading the amenities in their community.
This is as the community announced activities lined up for the 40th Akoraye Day Celebration, scheduled to run from December 6 to 13, 2025.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday, made on Monday, the Chairman of the Planning Committee, Prince Tunbi Toriola, described the Akoraye Day as a symbol of unity and a major driving force behind Modakeke’s development for nearly five decades.
He said the celebration has become more than a cultural event, serving as a rallying point for community-driven progress.
“For four decades, Akoraye Day has remained a strong pillar of unity, purpose, and progressive development for Modakeke. It is more than a cultural festival, it is a testimony to the collective determination of our community to rise above challenges and define our developmental future by ourselves,” he stated.
He recalled that the celebration, first initiated in 1977 and formally adopted in 1984, has survived disruptions and difficulties, including the temporary halt in 1980, but has continued to grow because of the commitment of Modakeke sons and daughters worldwide.
“Though it faced challenges, including the unfortunate disruption in 1980, our spirit was never broken. Instead, it ignited a renewed determination in our sons and daughters across the world,” he added.
Toriola highlighted several landmark projects funded through contributions made during earlier editions of Akoraye Day. These include Modakeke High School, an ultramodern palace, a modern police station, courts, markets, a civic centre, motor parks, and the establishment of Ogunsua 97.7FM, among many others.
He stressed that these developments stand as proof of the community’s commitment to transparency and collective progress.
“These projects were executed with unwavering commitment to accountability, transparency, and community ownership values our forebears established and which continue to guide us,” he said.
Toriola also unveiled the official eight-day programme, which includes traditional rites, thanksgiving services, academic competitions, sports, a fitness walk, a public lecture, an Asa/Award Night, and the grand finale featuring the launching of a ₦1 billion Community Development Fund on December 13.
The Planning Committee chairman made a strong appeal for peace before and during the celebration, warning against any attempts by mischief makers to disrupt activities.
“We must not give occasion for disruptors of peace to take advantage of our gathering. No progress thrives in an atmosphere of tension, and we must never allow any individual or group to derail the legacy we have built for decades,” he stated.
He assured that security agencies have been briefed but maintained that the first responsibility for peace lies with the people.
According to him, “We are a community of peace-loving, patriotic citizens committed to growth and development. We ask everyone to cooperate with authorities and embrace peaceful coexistence.”
Toriola also used the platform to highlight lingering infrastructural challenges in Modakeke, particularly the deplorable condition of access roads, community link roads, health facilities, drainage channels, and water supply systems.
He lamented the state of the Old NEPA Area bridge, describing it as an abandoned project now exposed to further deterioration.
Toriola urged all Modakeke indigenes, at home and abroad, to participate actively, support generously, and uphold peace throughout the celebration.
“Akoraye Day has always been about what we can achieve together. Let this 40th edition be a landmark that sets the stage for an even brighter and more prosperous Modakeke.”
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