_…Begins annual feeding, targets 3,000 folks each day throughout Ramadan_
An Oṣogbo born enterprise tycoon, Philanthropist cum politician, Ibrahim Taofeeq Kayode, famously referred to as ITK, has continued his long-standing custom of offering each day iftar meals (breaking of fasting) to hundreds through the ongoing holy month of Ramadan.
The iftar programme is one a part of a broader effort by ITK to present again to the neighborhood all year long.
In a exceptional show of neighborhood spirit, Kayode, whose roots are within the Aromole and Olaniyan compounds of Osogbo by means of his father and mom, says this initiative just isn’t pushed by political ambition however by a legacy of charity.
Although Kayode contested for a seat within the House of Representatives through the 2023 common elections, he insists that his charitable actions predate his political aspirations and can proceed no matter his political journey.
Through his efforts, Kayode has saved his father’s legacy alive whereas inspiring others to present again in instances of want.
According to him: “What we’re doing is past political affiliations. We simply need folks to return right here and have their iftar. We will not be doing this for political features however for the society.
“Before the elections, we had been doing this, and nothing will cease us from persevering with. This just isn’t for any political motive however for the nice of society.
“Ramadan is not the only moment we give out to society. We also share with the community during Christmas, New Year, Ileya festival, and Ramadan. Feeding the public during these periods is a legacy passed down from my father.”
Kayode recalled how his father’s generosity impressed his personal dedication to charity.
“I was very young when my father died, and I was told this is what he did when he was alive. What we are doing now is trying to bring back that legacy,” he stated.
The feeding initiative, which has been working for over a decade, began at his father’s home earlier than increasing to its present location within the Government Reserved Area, GRA, of Osogbo.
The programme ensures that from the primary day of Ramadan to its conclusion, nobody in want goes and not using a meal.
Kayode additionally used the chance to name on the federal government and well-meaning people to assist efforts aimed toward assuaging hardship locally.
“On a daily basis, we cater for more than 3,000 persons. This is a legacy. I don’t really want any reward from anybody. I just want to help the needy, and I urge people with the means to join hands and do the same.”
With such massive numbers gathering for the iftar meals, safety has been a precedence.
“You can see that from the gate, there are policemen and different safety operatives on the bottom. They know the way we do it right here, and nothing untoward has ever occurred.
“It is part of why we are doing this. We can all see President Bola Tinubu trying his best to reform the economy. The only way we can contribute our quota is by doing this little we are doing to make his Renewed Hope Agenda a reality.”
As Ramadan continues, the each day iftar programme stays a beacon of hope and a reminder of the facility of neighborhood and compassion.
