MILESTONE
Bobakeye (UK) Branch is not a club but an offshoot of Bobakeye Akile Ijebu.The Giwa Egbe, Otunba Biodun Onanuga, inaugurated the (UK) Branch, on 18th October 2002 at a well-packed opening ceremony in London, attended by traditional rulers, Otunbas and Oloyes of Ijebu land. It was a great day well celebrated with Keye (Alhaji) Wasiu Ayinde wonderful musical performance at the Brixton Academy Hall in South London.
In 2009, the leadership of Bobakeye in Diaspora was constitutionally made elective position for a three year term. In 2010, Otun Asiwaju Kayode Adesanya contested and won the election to become the first Asoju Bobakeye (Okunrin) Akile Ijebu in Diaspora. Giwa Biodun Onanuga and Asiwaju Dele Ogunbowale, performed the inauguration of the Asoju Bobakeye (Okunrin) at the Eclipse Restaurant, Camberwell, London in June 2010 - an occasion that was glittered with the leaders of other organisations, regberegbes, friends and relatives. The UK executives members: (Dr) Muyiwa Opeewe (General Secretary), Muyiwa Akiola (Chief Whip), Chief Lekan Kuku Special (PRO/Social), Lekan Odufunlade (Financial Officer) and Biodun Olowu (Ex-Officio) were sworn-in.
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Asiwaju Dele Ogunbowale
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However, after three years the activities of egbe Bobakeye in the UK had been transformed tremendously as the organisation continued to attract more honourable people becoming members. In addition, Asoju Adesanya was returned unopposed for the second term in 2013. On September 7th 2012, we celebrated the tenth (10th) years returned unopposed for the second term in 2013. On September 7th 2012, we celebrated the tenth (10th) years anniversary of existence in the United Kingdom, (See Picture Gallery 2012) attended by dignitaries and royal fathers from Nigeria. (Read UK Achievement) Bobakeye Akile Ijebu is moving forward and our ultimate goal - to establish a legacy that the generations behind us can be proud of, in the United Kingdom. However, our journey had been a period of growth and successes. We have met challenges and have grown stronger in our determination and perseverance. As a result, we continue to progress with opportunities raising us to much higher horizons. Our achievements are the result of the dedication of the financial members working with diligence and loyalty
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The main purpose of the inaugural ceremony is the establishment of the Egbe Bobakeye Akile-ijebu in diaspora and for world to know that Bobakeye is not just about toasting of glasses, sounds of action of cutleries and dancing in social circles but a traditional, cultural and social association committed to the promotion and preservation of the tradition and customs of Ijebu. While it also promotes and protects the interest of its members, the “Great Keyes” also benefits from members meetings where great ideas and knowledge are turned to invaluable achievements.
The stories of the UK inauguration will not complete without mentioning the personalities behind the success story which includes Bagbimo Bobakeye (Keye Ade Ijebu), who orchestrated the inauguration along with Asiwaju Dele Ogubowale, Keye Mutiu Olukoga, Keye Moses Adebanjo and Keye Ade Adekoya. Other foundation members include Keye Alhaji Wasiu Ayinde, Keye (Alhaji) Prince Folarin Osinusi, Mayegun Bobakeye (Obirin) Double T (Keye Nike Atekoja), Alhaja Risikat Sanni and Keye Nosmot Williams to mention but few. At the time, Bobakeye was one body, both men and the women wing of Bobakeye Obirin Double T.
Asiwaju Dele Ogunbowale led the organisation from the inception in 2002 untill 2008 when he returned to Nigeria. During the period, he raised the profile of the organisation with dedication and excellent leadership. Prior to his departure, he organised a handover election where Keye Kayode Adesanya won the life time Chieftaincy title of OtunAsiwaju Bobakeye Akile Ijebu to lead the organisation.
Omo Ijebu Alare!! Omo Alagemo Merindinlogun!!
Furthermore, Bobakeye UK Branch is unique in the Diaspora, a place where members come together for common goals and with technology at our disposal; we reach each other in seconds prior to our monthly meetings that is full of fun, well - thought ideas and very enjoyable moments.
We call on all sons and daughters of Ijebu - land born between 1956 and 1958, in other parts of the world to join hand with us to support our motherland and move the association forward in the Diaspora.
If you like to know more about us or join this prestigious society, please email us at admin@bobakeye.com or Click here to sign up.
OtunAsiwaju Kayode Adesanya