..as Olubaka commends wife’s initiative, warns against use of Knockouts during festive season

Laughter, music and the joyful voices of children filled the palace of the Olubaka of Oka on Wednesday 17th December 2025, as over 400 children gathered for the second edition of the Queen’s Christmas Carol and Children’s Funfair, an initiative of Olori Adejumoke Adeleye, wife of the Olubaka of Oka.

For many of the children drawn from different parts of the community, the event was more than a festive outing. It was a rare opportunity to experience the magic of Christmas through carol renditions, fun-filled games and the presentation of gifts in an atmosphere of warmth and togetherness.

The palace grounds came alive with excitement as children and adults participated in various games and raffle draws.

One of the highlights of the celebration was the Queen’s Lucky Dip, which rewarded lucky participants with cash prizes of ₦20,000, bringing smiles and cheers from both young and old.

Speaking during the event, Olori Adeleye described the Christmas funfair as a platform to glorify God and spread the true spirit of the season among children and the wider community.

She shared a personal story that shaped her passion for the initiative, recalling that she grew up in Ado-Ekiti at a time when Father Christmas celebrations were not common.

She explained that as a child, she often listened to friends recount their experiences at Christmas events without having such memories of her own. Determined that her children would not miss out, she ensured they attended Christmas celebrations regularly. That personal resolve, she said, later transformed into a broader vision for children in Oka-Akoko.

According to Olori Adeleye, her marriage into Oka-Akoko, a largely agrarian community, further strengthened her desire to create a moment of joy for children whose parents are often occupied with farming activities.

She noted that the idea for the programme came through divine inspiration, adding that she was led by the Holy Spirit to organise a Christmas carol service alongside a children’s funfair.

The Olubaka of Oka Land, Oba Dr. Yusuf Adebori Adeleye, OON, praised his wife for the initiative, describing it as a gesture that has strengthened unity and peaceful coexistence in Akoko South West Local Government Area.

He used the occasion to call on residents to maintain peace during the festive period and cautioned against the use of knockouts and other dangerous fireworks.

The spiritual tone of the celebration was reinforced by the Lord Bishop of the Akoko Anglican Diocese, Rt. Ven. J.O.B. Bada, who delivered an exhortation during the carol service.

He commended Olori Adeleye for her commitment to the welfare of children and urged residents to celebrate Christmas with love, moderation and a sense of community.

For the beneficiaries, the day was one they will not forget in a hurry.

Speaking on behalf of those who received cash prizes, Akerele Opemipo and Busuyi Olaide expressed heartfelt gratitude to the organiser, offering prayers for God’s continued blessings on her and her family.

The event also drew the presence of royal fathers, political stakeholders, chiefs and religious leaders, including the Alale of Akungba Land, HRM Oba Isiaka Oseni Adu (Agure I); the Asin of Oka-Odo, Oba (Sir) Pius Omiyejola Akande; Dr Victor Ategbole; and Akogun Olugbenga Omole.

As the carols faded and the children returned home clutching gifts and prizes, the Queen’s Christmas Carol and Children’s Funfair stood out as a reminder that beyond the celebrations, Christmas is about love, giving and creating lasting memories—especially for the youngest members of the community.