Introduction:
When this topic ,the emergence and leadership of the Esa Oke Central Union (ECU) to be published in the maiden edition of Esa Oke Today Magazine Online,
was staked to my name I tried unsuccessfully to avoid the topic . It is a sensitivity topic with potentials to refresh old wounds and acrimony reignited. Though I have been constrained by the overall desires and interest of the publishers to accept it , and indeed I will be mild in my review and focus on the essentials that would continue to manifest true reconciliations and brotherhood .
The ECU was born out of a deep-seated desire to reverse the decline in our community’s development indices and to restore hope and pride among the people of Esa Oke. Our story is one of resilience, unity, and visionary leadership, which has been instrumental in steering our community towards a more promising future.
The Emergence of the Esa Oke Central Union (ECU)
The formation of the Esa Oke Central Union (ECU) came at a critical juncture in the history of our community. Development indices had become moribund, and the challenges facing Esa Oke were severe. High student dropout rates, rampant drug abuse, underage pregnancies, and bad roads were just a few of the pressing issues. The breakdown of educational infrastructure was particularly alarming, with just six teachers catering to two secondary schools -Esa Oke Grammar School and Saint Joseph’s Secondary School -and approximately 15 teachers handling seven primary schools in Esa Oke.
In the face of these daunting challenges, many indigenes of Esa Oke began to show a growing disinterest in the plight of the community and indeed many of them relocated to neighbouring communities in search of greener pastures. Everyone for himself! This was a period marked by frustration and despair, as the problems seemed insurmountable. I would like to commend and appreciate the tremendous contributions and efforts of some of our development veterans and Stakeholders especially, Baba Dr Edward Omotoso, Asiwaju Dosu Fatokun, Chief Fadeyi Ayoade (of blessed memory) , members of Esa Oke Elders’ Council, Esa Oke Renewal Initiatives, (ERI), Otunba Akin Adaramola, Hon Wole Oke, Prof Siji Olamiju (Akol), who dared to carry out some form of reforms and social supports . Your commitments to the betterment of our community is top-notch and truly commendable. I have no doubt that together we will achieve greater developmental milestones in our strides.
It was precisely during this time of crisis that a group of young men and women with a radical impulse for development came together to form the Esa Oke Indigenes Home and Diaspora (EIHD) platform. This platform was designed to harness the collective energy and resources of Esa Oke’s sons and daughters, both at home and abroad, for the betterment of our community.
The Role of the EIHD in Reviving the ECU:
The early successes recorded by the EIHD platform were pivotal in rekindling hope within our community. It was this momentum that led to the initiation of the Esa Oke Indigenes Home and Diaspora (EIHD) Esa Oke Conference on March 30, 2024. The conference marked a turning point, as it brought together like-minded individuals committed to the revival of our community. One of the key outcomes of this conference was the resuscitation of the Esa Oke Central Union (ECU), which had long been recognized as the engine room for policy direction in Esa Oke.
Leadership and Vision:
The leadership of the ECU has been characterized by a consultative and inclusive approach. The ECU operates in close collaboration with the Council of Elders, the Iwarefas, and His Majesty, Oba Adeyemi Adediran Atipa Owaji II, the Owa Omiran of Esa Oke. This partnership ensures that the decisions and policies formulated by the ECU are aligned with the cultural values and long-term interests of our community. The ECU’s leadership has consistently demonstrated a commitment to safeguarding the rights and privileges of Esa Oke, particularly in instances where these are at risk of being shortchanged.
On the 27th Day of May,2024, His Royal Majesty Oba Adeyemi Akanbi Adediran Atipa Owaji II Owa Omiran of Esa Oke proclaimed the formation of Esa Oke Central Union ECU and Inaugurated the Executive Council. The following are the principal officers of the Exco
1). Otunba Bamigboye Yinusa Aremu, Chairman
2) . Env. Ayo Owolabi, Vice Chairman 1
3). Pastor Gbenga Aregbesola, Vice Chairman 2
4). Engr Jimi Dada Odudu PhD, General Secretary
5) . Mrs Omolola Agunbiade, Treasurer
5). Awodiran Oladiti, Financial Secretary
6.Elder Paul Fadairo, Auditor 2
7.) Ogbeni Dele Ajayi, Public Relations Officer (PRO)
8) Ogunsiji Damisi, Auditor 1
9). Ms Olagunju Agnes, Diaspora Rep.
UK/Ireland
10). Kayode Ojiro, Diasporan Rep.
North America
11). Elijah Adeniji,
I2).Aderonke Adeniran Ogundele
13). Barr. Idowu Akinsola, Legal Advisor
14). Alh. Fatal Sodiq
15). Alagba Afolayan Adebiyi
16). Agbeniyi Olatunji, Private Secretary, ECU (Chairman)
Board of Trustees
1) Chief Fadeyi Ayoade, Chairman
2). Otunba Akin Adaramola
3) .Prof Abiodun Oni, Secretary
4). Prof Siji Olamiju Akol
5). Dr Mrs Kehinde Cecilia Ijitona
Conclusion
The emergence and leadership of the Esa Oke Central Union (ECU) represent a beacon of hope for our community. Through visionary leadership, collaboration, and a relentless commitment to development, the ECU has not only revived the spirit of Esa Oke but has also laid a solid foundation for future progress. As we continue to build on these achievements, let us remain united in our pursuit of a brighter and more prosperous Esa Oke. Together, we can overcome any challenge and ensure that our community thrives for generations to come.
Thank you.