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Ogun: Abiodun presents staff of office to 14th Olowu, tasks him on development of domain
Ogun: Abiodun presents staff of office to 14th Olowu, tasks him on development of domain
Ogun State governor, Dapo Abiodun, on Saturday, presented the instrument of office to the 14th Olowu of Owu, Oba (Prof.) Saka Matemilola, with a charge to see his installation as a call to service towards the development of Owu Kingdom and the state in general
Speaking at the coronation and the 23rd Edition of Owu Day Celebration held at the Oba Adeleye Park, Sokori, Abeokuta, equally charged the new monarch to join hands towards achieving its vision of building the future of the state, especially now when his administration has charted a new economy blueprint for the state.
The governor described Owu people as intelligent, resourceful and highly cerebral who have evolved over the years to become a force not only in Yorubaland, but the entire nation.
He noted that the unbroken bond between the Owu people must be recognized, especially after Orile Owu was devastated in the 1820s during the Yoruba inter-tribal wars.
Abiodun pointed out that the long history of the Owu people’s triumph over adversity, resilience in the face of opposition and crass demonstration has made them as one, united, indivisible and proud entity.
“Indeed, wherever we find the Owu people, you see them excelling. Whether in Osun, their primordial ancestral homestead, through Kwara, Oyo, Lagos, Ogun and even in Ondo states. One is always faced with a unique species of mankind – indomitable, valiant, loyal, strong-willed, tenacious, highly outspoken, principled and most resourceful”, the governor noted.
The governor described the new Olowu as a man of honour and integrity whose vast experience and intellectual prowess would bring in immense growth to the kingdom.
He implored sons and daughters of the kingdom to support the traditional ruler in his developmental agenda to take the town to greater heights.
While assuring equal treatment of all parts of the state in project execution, Governor Abiodun also assured that his administration remained committed towards the successful implementation of its ISEYA Agenda, charging the people of Owu Kingdom to discharge their civic responsibilities peacefully as the 2023 election is fast approaching.
He commended those who contested for the stool with the new monarch for being orderly and the Planning Committee of the Odun Omo Olowu and other stakeholders who contributed to the success of the annual festival, maintaining that the large turn out of Owu indigenes at the coronation event was a confirmation to the acceptability of the new Olowu.
In his remarks, the chairman, Abeokuta North Local Government Area, Abdulsam Ayorinde, expressed optimism that the crowning of Oba Matemilola, would usher in a new era of development in Owuland and its environs, urging the indigenes to rally round the traditional ruler for the peace and development of the town.
The Balogun of Owu and former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, represented by the Otun of Owu, Chief Doja Adewolu, described the new monarch as a man of wisdom, knowledge and good character who rose to the top of his career, expressing the hope that he would steer the ship of the town to greater height.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Matemilola assured all sons and daughters of Owu kingdom that he would lead the way and facilitate the growth of the kingdom, calling on groups, religious leaders and individuals in the kingdom to play their part with trust, dedication and unity.
According to Oba Matemilola, the Olowu stool is unique and comes with great responsibilities, promising to live up to the virtues, principles and values as exemplified by his predecessors.
The event was attended by dignitaries from all walks of life including former governors, Olusegun Osoba, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, top government functionaries, traditional rulers including the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, the Obong of Calabar, Olu of Warri, the Alake of Egbaland , Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo and other traditional rulers.
Aare Adetola Emmanuel King Congratulates Hon. Adesola Ayoola-Elegbeji on Election Victory
The Chairman/CEO of Adron Group, Sir Aare Adetola Emmanuel King KOF, has congratulated Hon. Adesola Ayoola-Elegbeji on her resounding victory in the just-concluded by-election for the Remo Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives.
In a goodwill message issued by him, he described the victory as “a historic moment for the Remo people, coming at a time when the constituency yearns for a leader with vision, courage, and genuine commitment to service.”
He noted that the outcome of the election was an attestation to the trust and confidence reposed in Hon. Ayoola-Elegbeji by the people, adding that her sterling qualities, integrity, accessibility, and compassion for the grassroots had endeared her to the electorate.
“The overwhelming support you garnered at the polls is proof that you are the right voice at the right time to carry the aspirations of Remo to the national stage,” he stated.
While acknowledging that the by-election followed the painful demise of the late Hon. Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga (Ijaya), Aare Adetola Emmanuel King said Hon. Ayoola-Elegbeji’s emergence symbolizes the continuity of purposeful representation. He expressed confidence that she would not only sustain the legacy of her predecessor but also surpass it with new energy, innovative ideas, and progressive leadership.
The Adron Group Chairman further prayed for divine wisdom, strength, and compassion for the Member-Elect as she assumes office, expressing confidence that her tenure will usher in meaningful development, economic empowerment, and greater opportunities for the people of Remo Federal Constituency.
Olowu Celebrates Former Military President, Ibrahim Babangida, At 84
Olowu of Kuta, HRM Oba Dr Hammed Oyelude Makama, CON, Tegbosun III, has congratulated former military president, Gen Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, rtd, who is 84 today.
Olowu, in a statement he signed, eulogised the former military ruler for his modest achievements while he was in power.
According to Olowu, ” IBB is an enigma. He has carved a niche for himself as a former military president. His tenure witnessed the completion of many monumental legacy projects that are still visible today. His Hill Top Mansion in Minna has become a Mecca of sorts for those who aspired to lead Nigeria.”
Olowu, who described Gen Babangida as being grossly misunderstood, said history would be kind to him.
He said, “The launch of Gen Babangida’s Autobiography: ‘A Journey In Service’, and the testimonies from the likes of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, Tony Elumelu, Jim Ovia, Abdusalam Rabiu, Oil Magnate, Arthur Eze, and many others, testified to his goodwill despite leaving public office three decades ago.
” On behalf of myself, my Oloris and Olowu-In-Council.
All members of the defunct IBB Vision 2003 and Vision 2007, I wish President Ibrahim Babangida, rtd, a happy birthday. I also wish him all the best as he aged gracefully,” Olowu added.
Born on August 17, 1941, Gen Ibrahim Babangida, rtd, ruled Nigeria from 1985 to 1993.
His presidency was marked by significant political and economic reforms.
A new dawn breaks over Agunjin — a moment etched in gold in the annals of history — as the crown of the Ariwajoye Adekeye Royal Dynasty returns to its rightful home. With this homecoming, the living legacy of Agunjin’s royal heritage is renewed, strengthened, and destined to shine for generations to come.
The proud sons and daughters of Agunjin welcome His Royal Highness, Oba Isiaka Babatunde Malik Adekeye, Ariwajoye III of Agunjin Land, with joy, reverence, and boundless hope for the future.
A distinguished Nigerian based in New York, Oba Adekeye is a dynamic and accomplished professional whose illustrious career spans cinematography, international trade, and hospitality. Born into the revered Ariwajoye Adekeye Royal Family of Agunjin, in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, His Royal Highness now carries forward an ancestral legacy steeped in honor, dignity, and purpose.
The new Oba Adekeye is the proud nephew of the late Oba Jimoh Ajide Adekeye and the grandson of Oba Alade Adekeye — custodians of Agunjin’s noble traditions whose names remain deeply woven into the history of the land.
As the Yoruba say,
“Adé kì í wọ́ lórí aláìní orí.” — The crown does not rest on a head without destiny.”
His Royal Highness wears the crown not as a mere ornament, but as a solemn trust from his ancestors to his people.
The Adekeye Royal Family extends profound gratitude to: His Excellency, H.E.AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, Chaiman GFON, Sadauna Ngeri of Ilorin, Executive Governor of Kwara State; The Chairman, Kwara State Council of Chiefs, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, Emir of Ilorin; The Chairman, Igbomina Traditional Rulers Forum, Oba (Barr.) Alh. Ismail Bolaji Yahaya Atoloye Alebiosu, Olupo of Ajase Ipo; The Chairman, Ifelodun Traditional Council, HRM Oba (Dr.) Alhaji Ahmed Awuni Babalola Arepo III, Elese of Igbaja; The Ifelodun Traditional Council Members and the Kwara State Traditional Council.
Our heartfelt appreciation also goes to the Hon. Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Community Development, Hon. Abdullahi Bata, and to the Executive Chairman, Ifelodun LGA, Hon. Femi Yusuf, for their steadfast commitment to upholding historical truths and safeguarding the cherished traditions of Agunjin.
As the newly crowned Ariwajoye III, Oba Adekeye brings decades of professionalism, global exposure, and deep cultural pride to his reign. His vision is noble and unwavering — to champion sustainable development across the Agunjin district, preserve the rich traditions of the land, and unite his people both at home and in the diaspora under one banner of progress, peace, and pride.
In the words of an old royal proverb, “When the king builds bridges, the people will cross to a better tomorrow.” Ariwajoye III now stands as that bridge — connecting the heritage of the past with the promise of the future.
Long live Ariwajoye III. Long live the Ariwajoye Adekeye Royal Family. Long live Agunjin Land.
Prince Oluwatoyin Adekeye For the Family
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