The Soun of Ogbomoso, His Imperial Majesty Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye (Orumogege III), has pledged moral and financial support to OAKonsult Disabilities Outreach, a non-governmental organisation championing the rights and inclusion of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs).
The royal endorsement came during a courtesy visit to the palace by the NGO, as part of a Disability Awareness and Remembrance Rally held in memory of Toyitan Abigail, a late PwD child whose story continues to inspire advocacy in Ogbomoso and beyond.
OAKonsult Disabilities Outreach is a faith-based, non-profit organisation devoted to empowering families and individuals with disabilities to live dignified, inclusive, and purposeful lives.
The rally, which drew schools, civil society groups, and members of the community, aimed to raise awareness, promote inclusion, and celebrate the resilience and contributions of PwDs.
Participants marched through key locations in Ogbomoso, including the Soun’s Palace, Bowen University Teaching Hospital, the Nigerian Baptist Theological Seminary (NBTS), Takie Junction, Oke-Elerin Junction, and Oja Igbo, calling for greater recognition, rights, and resources for people living with disabilities.
Receiving the team at his palace, Oba Olaoye lauded the NGO’s mission as “noble and necessary,” assuring them of continued royal support.
“What you’re doing is heartwarming and commendable. We will continue to support you both morally and financially. I pray that your vision comes to full fruition. There is no problem; we are with you. Whatever benefits the community benefits us all. It will be well with you,” the monarch said offering royal blessings on the management of Oaks Prime Center.
In her remarks, Mrs. Olufunke Adeloye, Chief Executive Officer of OAKonsult, explained that the rally was designed to push for inclusion across all spheres, including religious institutions, communities, and government at every level.
Speaking from a deeply personal place, Adeloye noted that her advocacy stems from the pain and purpose of losing a child with a disability, an experience that inspired the founding of the organisation.
“Since 2021, OAKonsult has worked with schools, homes, and individuals across the Southwest, focusing on children and youth with special needs. We provide capacity-building support, equipment, and awareness campaigns, particularly in faith-based organisations where inclusion is often overlooked.
“Our goal is to create a holistic support system that allows children with disabilities to thrive in love and dignity, and to equip their families and communities with the tools to nurture them,” she said.
The CEO while appealing for support towards the completion of the OAK PRIME Centre, a purpose-built support facility located in Oolo, Oriire Local Government Area of Ogbomoso expressed confidence that the project will achieve it’s purpose and objectives when completed and commissioned by the grace of God Almighty.
‘The centre, once completed, will serve as a hub for therapy, learning, and rehabilitation for children and young people with disabilities.
Prince Deji Irawo, a member of the NGO’s Advisory Board, described the initiative as part of their broader mission to contribute meaningfully to national development through inclusive social infrastructure.
Mrs. Itunuade Iyun, Country Director of OAKonsult, described the OAK PRIME Centre as a “one-stop support facility,” capable of serving between 800 to 1,000 children, ensuring they have “a real chance at life.”
“This centre is a lifeline. It’s designed to support not just the children, but everyone in their ecosystem, families, caregivers, educators, and faith leaders,” Iyun said.
Present at the rally also included an Advisory Board member, Rev. Sam Ajayi; the Olori of Oolo Town, Mrs Bola Ajayi, and others. The students of Community Special Basic School, Oke Ora Arada, Ogbomoso were also part of the rally.
