In a historic milestone, the Sekumade of Ipakodo Kingdom, Oba Engr. Bashiru Shotonwa, laid the foundation for the construction of an ultra-modern palace for Ipakodo Kingdom, on Friday, 10th of January. This ambitious project, spearheaded by Ikorodu Division Peace Initiative Limited (IDPIL) under the leadership of Odofin Adewunmi Ogunsanya, marks a significant development in the kingdom’s infrastructure and is poised to elevate the monarch’s residence to a world-class standard.

In his remarks at the ceremony, Oba Engr. Bashiru Shotonwa stated, “When Odofin Adewunmi Ogunsanya told me of his plans to build a new palace for us in Ipakodo, it was like a dream, but when i started seeing construction blocks coming into the palace, that’s when I knew this thing is really coming into a reality.”

He emphasized that the palace belongs to everyone, not just the monarch, and expressed his happiness that this historic moment is happening during his reign.

He noted that Ipakodo Kingdom has a long-standing history, and this development is long overdue. “I’m happy this is happening during my reign,” he said. “Ipakodo has a long-standing history and this is long time coming.”

Oba Engr. Bashiru Shotonwa further stated that today marks the beginning of a history, and the presence of the 5 ruling houses, Chiefs, Baales, Sons, and Daughters in Ipakodo Kingdom, is a testament to the significance of this moment. This event heralds a new dawn for the kingdom, and he expressed his gratitude to Odofin Ogunsanya for for his thoughtfulness in building a 21st-century palace for them in Ipakodo Kingdom.

Otunba Ganiyu Abiru, Executive Secretary of IDPIL, represented Odofin Adewunmi Ogunsanya, Chairman of IDPIL, highlighted the organization’s evolving mission.

Beyond community protection and security, IDPIL is expanding its focus to include education, healthcare, and environmental development. As evidence of this commitment, Otunba Abiru cited the ongoing construction of a modern renal centre at Ikorodu General Hospital.

Otunba Abiru stated as they embarked on the construction of the Oba Sekumade Palace, a project aimed at honoring the historical and cultural significance of Ipakodo. Scheduled for completion within the next one and a half years, the palace will serve as a testament to the community’s legacy and aspirations.

In conclusion, Otunba Abiru urged community members to oversee the project’s progress and revealed plans to install solar-powered streetlights in Ipakodo. This initiative is part of IDPIL’s efforts to improve the lives of residents and promote sustainable development in the community.

Hon. Sulaimon Kazeem, Executive Chairman of Ikorodu West LCDA, expressed his admiration for IDPIL and its efforts to develop Ikorodu Division. He stated that a partnership between the Local Government and IDPIL would be beneficial in moving Ikorodu forward.

The Chairman specifically commended IDPIL’s initiative to build a befitting palace for Ipakodo Kingdom, a project that the council cannot afford to undertake on its own. He praised IDPIL’s commitment to improving the lives of residents in Ikorodu Division, saying, “We appreciate your good work in Ikorodu Division.”

The Chairman also acknowledged the positive impact during the reign of current Oba Bashiru Shotonwa, saying, “Lots of great things are happening in this kingdom, May Almighty God give you long life on the throne of your forefathers.”

The ceremony was attended by dignitaries; Lisa of Ipakodo Chief Oludayo Shotonwa, Chief Oye Solebo Bobaselu of Ipakodo kingdom, Arc. Taiwo Kara, Engr. Ganiyu Saka Aremo of Ipakodo Kingdom, Chief Erelu Temitayo,
Chairman Ipakodo development association Chief Olasunkanmi Shotonwa, Mrs. Tajudeen Odofin President TAO foundation, Chiefs, Council of Baales, Sons and Daughters of Ipakodo Kingdom.