celebrity radar - gossips

YEYEMOLU; Olori #1, Ooni of Ile-Ife

Published

8 years ago

May 13, 2018

There has been tales and stories which one may have taken as mere hearsay or some myth about the so called Yeyemolu of Ile-Ife.

Today, I shall be TELLING about this mysterious and symbolic Yeyemolu, her personality and relationship with the Arole Oduduwa; Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Babatunde Ogunwusi, Ojaja II.

According to the number one citizen of Oduduwa race, Alase Orisa! His Imperial Majesty (H.I.M), Yeyemolu is the first wife of the first Oonirisa and she remains the first wife of subsequent Oonirisas including himself as the incumbent and subsequent kings that would reign thereafter. He stated that Yeyemolu was his first contact in the Palace having ascended the throne of his fore-fathers and he had performed such rights as would be expected of an Oonirisa to his beloved Olori on entering the palace.

H.I.M majesty further explains that, he holds conversation and deliberates with Yeyemolu on a daily basis as he would a wife. Together as couple they deliberate on his activities and decide on steps to be taken. The revered monarchs explained that Yeyemolu is a god-sent wife to the Oonirisa. Any other Olori in the Palace of the Ooni must accord Yeyemolu the expected respect and would have to a take cue from her otherwise; she would be an unwelcomed guest at the palace.

Yeyemolu is often celebrated in the month of April in Ile-Ife as a deity (messenger of God). The celebration is seen as the king’s prerogative owing to the fact that she is the revered wife that must be honoured. Although, she is now with Olodumare (God) and no longer physically visible in human to us but she has been immortalised in the form of living spring, that is a “well” right there in the palace. The water from this well is used in carrying out all water-required activity of the Oonirisa in the palace. H.I.M claims that it is imperative to celebrate the legend Yeyemolu; she is “oro” that is, ‘a must-to-do sacrifice’.

Kabiyesi gave us an insight as to the distinction between culture and religion when explaining the concept of oro. He said “oro” is obeisance to formal rights of the Yoruba people. For instance, it is mandatory for a properly raised Yoruba to pay homage to the elders by kneeling or prostrating when greeting them. Kabiyesi made it clear that, culture is distinct from religion; irrespective of one’s religion, it would be an abomination to disrespect an elder and this goes to show that culture cannot be undermined as it is the way by which people live. In like manner, it is important to celebrate Yeyemolu and other cultural festivals. H.I.M believes this cannot be far-fetched for the reason why the South-West people of Nigeria live in one accord; it owns to the fact that we respect our culture and appreciate our individual differences in terms of religion.

Kabiyesi reiterated that we must always endeavour to promote our culture as a people with beautiful heritage as this will in-turn benefit us as a nation in the area of tourism.

Another spectacular sight at the well is the fact that, Yeyemolu is uncovered and yet remains spotless clean when drawn. Kabiyesi stated that, it is the wish of Yeyemolu to be left open as she seeks to look unto God, the author and finisher of her faith. No wonder it is called “O to ro ro omi a le Ife. Ara yi to mu nibe ko wopo o….” this implies that, ‘Yeyemolu is such clean and supernatural water full of purity and without blemish. Those who drink from it are so few……….’ It is also referred to as the spring of absolute truth.

Yeyemolu was said to be a kind, loving and supportive wife to her husband but as fate would have it, she could not conceive and bring forth a child for her husband despite all effort. As a result, she insisted that her husband, the king should marry another woman who would bare him children. The then Oonirisa therefore, married a new wife who gave birth to a child. Everyone including Yeyemolu was delighted for the new addition to the family.

Shortly after the birth, Yeyemolu told the king that she was up to surprise the Ooni; the king laughed and indeed was expecting a nicely packaged surprise from Olori at the appointed time. Days later, Yeyemolu went missing in the palace; no one could tell about her disappearance. Whilst in search for Yeyemolu, an Emese (king’s helper) found a strange sight in the palace; a freshly dug well. He reported to the king who also sighted the well. That was a surprise for the king as well as a mystery, due to the fact that, he had not ordered a well to be dug.

Therefore, the king invited Babalawo (an Ifa priest) who in-turn sought the face of Orunmila by consulting the oracle regarding the circumstances. Orumila, the Orisa (diety) of wisdom, knowledge and divination, who understands the human form and purity as the premodial diety (orisa abalaye), ibikeji Olodumare (next to God in hierarchy) and the eleri ipin (witness of fate) vividly told Kabiyesi how the well had appeared on the spot. “Yeyemolu had turned herself into the living well.”

The Babalawo made it possible for the Ooni to see and have a conversation with her beloved Olori. Yeyemolu said, “It was her wish to continue her life as a well so she could be a blessing unto the king and others. She would always be there any time she is needed; she promised to support the king or whoever comes to ask her for a favour in good faith, she would remain a pillar of support forever.” All that need to be done is to speak to Yeyemolu and also drink from the well; all problems are considered resolved by Olodumare through the living deity, Yeyemolu.

Indeed, Yeyemolu seem compassionate but regardless, she is jealous. She could not stand the rivalry and act of sharing her man with another woman; hence the decision to let go of her home in the physical realm. This decision however, had left her in a vulnerable position. Countless rulers of Ile-Ife had pitched their tent in her bosom. The numbers of rulers from the first to second dynasty are innumerable to us but we know of the third dynasty of which she is in her 51^st matrimony to my king, Alaka Omo Apaara! Otiti Arikilemi! Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Babatunde Ogunwusi. Kabiyesi oooooooo…………O yo omo loko lala sonu!

Gbemisola ‘Bisi-Taiwo.

celebrity radar - gossips

Adron Homes Celebrates Visionary Chairman, Aare Adetola Emmanuel King, at 51

Published

9 hours ago

April 2, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Adron Homes Celebrates Visionary Chairman, Aare Adetola Emmanuel King, at 51

The management and staff of Adron Homes and Properties Limited have joined family, friends, associates, and well-wishers across the globe to celebrate their Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing, as he marks his 51st birthday.

In a statement released by the company, the milestone was described as a celebration of an exceptional leader whose vision, resilience, and entrepreneurial brilliance have not only transformed Adron Homes into a household name in Nigeria’s real estate sector but have also redefined affordable housing across the country.

Under his dynamic leadership, Adron Homes has continued to expand its footprint, delivering value-driven residential solutions while empowering thousands of Nigerians with opportunities for home ownership. His commitment to excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction has remained the driving force behind the company’s sustained growth and industry leadership.

The statement further highlighted Aare EmmanuelKing’s passion for nation-building and community development, noting his significant contributions to job creation, youth empowerment, and the promotion of socio-economic development through real estate investments.

“As a leader, mentor, and visionary, Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing has consistently inspired a culture of excellence, integrity, and dedication within the organization. His ability to turn bold ideas into reality continues to position Adron Homes as a trailblazer in the industry,” the statement read.

The company expressed profound gratitude for his steadfast leadership and prayed for continued wisdom, strength, and sound health as he embarks on another year of impactful achievements.

As he celebrates his 51st birthday, the entire Adron Homes family proudly honours a man whose legacy continues to shape the future of real estate in Nigeria.

Happy 51st Birthday, Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing!

celebrity radar - gossips

Oba Ara Releases Emotional Tribute to Late Taiwo Adegbodu

Published

3 days ago

March 30, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Oba Ara Releases Emotional Tribute to Late Taiwo Adegbodu

Taofik Afolabi

The gospel music community continues to grieve the painful loss of Taiwo Adegbodu, a beloved figure whose sudden departure left a deep void among fans, colleagues, and loved ones. In response to this loss, renowned gospel minister Rotimi Onimole, popularly known as Oba Ara, has released a moving tribute song that captures both the sorrow of the moment and the enduring legacy of the late singer.

Oba Ara, a proud son of Isale Eko, channels raw emotion throughout the song, using heartfelt lyrics and soul-stirring melodies to reflect on his personal connection with Taiwo Adegbodu. In the tribute, he openly expresses how deeply the news of Adegbodu’s passing shook him, describing it as a painful and unexpected loss that is difficult to come to terms with.

The song goes beyond mourning, it celebrates the life, ministry, and impact of Taiwo Adegbodu. Oba Ara highlights the late artist’s dedication to spreading the gospel through music, his inspiring voice, and the spiritual influence he had on many within and beyond Nigeria. Through powerful verses, he paints a picture of a man who lived for God and touched countless lives through his ministry.

Listeners have described the tribute as both comforting and deeply emotional, as it resonates with the collective grief of the gospel music community. It serves as a reminder that although Taiwo Adegbodu is no longer physically present, his music, message, and legacy will continue to live on.

In honoring his late colleague, Oba Ara not only pays his respects but also offers a source of healing for fans and fellow ministers, using music as a tool to process grief and celebrate a life well lived.

celebrity radar - gossips

Buratai, Fagbemi , Shagaya, Olofa, Others Eulogise Olowu Kuta’s Olori On 60th Birthday, Foundation Launch

Published

3 days ago

March 30, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Buratai, Fagbemi , Shagaya, Olofa, Others Eulogise Olowu Kuta’s Olori On 60th Birthday, Foundation Launch

Eminent personalities across the Nigeria stormed the TFK Event Centre, Bala Mohammed Way, Guzape, Abuja, to celebrate the 60th birthday of Olowu Kuta’s Olori, Queen Jumai Amoke and her Foundation Launch on Saturday 28, March 2026.

From former Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen TY Buratai rtd, to the Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi; Olofa of Offa, HRM Oba Mufutau Gbadamosi. Even top businesswoman and socialite, Chief (Mrs) Bola Shagaya, was in attendance.

Other dignitaries were newly promoted Deputy Inspector-General of Police and former AIG Zone 2 , Lagos , Adegoke Fayoade, Major General Abdumalik, Major General Samuel Adebayo rtd (Fmr CDI);

Major General Anthony Omozoje rtd (Fmr Copp);

Alhaji Tajudeen Owoyemi (Asiwaju of Offa and CEO Radisson Hotel Nigeria;

Dr Waheed Olagunju, former managing director of Bank of Industry, Oniba of Iba, Lagos State, HRM Oba Dr Suleiman Raji ;

Justice Falola, Olu of Ile-Ogbo , Oba Adetoyese amongst many traditional rulers and captains of industry too numerous to mention.

Speaking at the occasion, the Chief Host, Olowu of Kuta, HRM Oba Dr Adekunle Oyelude Makama, CON , Tegbosun iii, who is also the husband of the celebrant commended Queen Jumai for ‘ her slender arms full of kindness’ to establish such humanitarian Foundation, ‘Amoke Children and mother in Need Foundation’ at a time Nigerians are going through economic crisis occassioned by the global meltdown.

Olowu also commended her steadfastness and love for the less privileged and downtrodden.

The monarch refrenced the task before his wife’s humanitarian gesture said her best is yet to come.

” Olori Amoke Jumai, I celebrate you. You will celebrate 70, 80, 90 and continue to shine as you continue to put a smile on people’s faces. I love you, “Olowu Kuta added.

To Lt Gen Buratai, a former army chief and former Nigerian Ambassador to Benin Republic, the reward of hard work is more work.

Buratai, who also doubles as Balogun Agba of Owu Kuta, a chieftaincy title reserved for a generalismo congratulated Queen Jumai for attaining the age of 60 in good health.

The retired army General said he’s not surprised by the turn out of eminent personalities across the country to celebrate the Olowu Kuta’s Olori because she merited it through her hospitality to all, adding that Allah the most merciful, most beneficial would accept all her act of ibadah.

The minister of Justice, Prince Fagbemi, was full of praises for Queen Jumai for deeming it fit to have a place in her heart to accommodate the needy and less privileged in ‘our society.’

Prince Fagbemi urged the guests to contribute generously to support the Foundation in order to continue to alleviate poverty and put a smile on the faces of the people.

” I congratulate you on your 60th birthday and Foundation Launch. I wish you many happy returns of the day and many more fruitful services to the country and motherland”, Prince Fagbemi added.

The celebrant, Queen Jumai who was grining from ear to ear thankfully said she was excited by the turn out and the response of the people to her foundation.

Queen Jumai, however, promised to continue to use her resources and donations received for the good of the needy and less privileged in the society.

” I want to appreciate my own Kabiesi Olofa of Offa , for his presence and im I’m using him as a point of contact to all other Kabiesis present here, the minister of justice and Attorney-General, you’re welcome, sir; Mrs Bola Shagaya, I salute your enterprise, Lt Gen Buratai, I’m grateful, sir; DIG Fayoade, Justice Falola and other dignitaries too numerous to mention, I thank you, all. To my darling husband, Kabiesi Olowu , I thank you immensely for your support. And to my family and friends, I thank you , all. E se pupo!”, she said.