Culture

By Mojisola Oladele

The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, has raised the alarm over rising tensions between communities along the Osun and Oyo State border.

Oba Akanbi who stated this in a statement by his spokesperson, Mr. Alli Ibrahim emphasized the need for urgent action by the Oyo and Osun State governments, to prevent communal crisis.

He alleged individuals from the Lagelu Area in Oyo State of forcefully invading and attacking communities within Osun’s border towns. 

The monarch stressed that if the issue is not quickly resolved it could result to retaliation and unnecessary escalation of the situation.

He noted that government facilities, such as a district primary school and a maternity centre owned by Osun State, were vandalized. 

The Oluwo of Iwo also explained that farmlands had been taken over, harvested by force, and that armed individuals were still stationed in the affected communities.

Oba Akanbi who condemned the use of violence in settling land disputes, appealed to the affected residents to remain calm.

He said lasting peace could only be achieved through adherence to the reports and directives of the National Boundary Commission.

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Culture

By Iyabo Adebisi

President Bola Tinubu has tasked the  Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade to play a mediatory role in conflicts and various communal disputes, most importantly, as a symbol of Yoruba resilience, wisdom, and pride.

He stated this while speaking at the coronation ceremony of the new Alaafin, held at the Olivet Baptist High School, Oyo. 

President Tinubu represented by the Minister of Power, Chief Bayo Adelabu said the Alaafin stool is a symbol of cultural pride, unity, and the enduring legacy of one of Africa’s most powerful empires.

President Tinubu said the Alaafin’s stool remain vital in fostering peace, promoting cultural identity, and supporting government at a critical time Nigeria is navigating complex challenges. 

The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to  cultural heritage by supporting initiatives that promote rich traditions and ensure that Nigeria’s diverse cultures remain a source of strength. 

“Today’s historic event is significant for many reasons, the Oyo Empire was once the political and military stronghold of the Yoruba people, renowned for its administrative sophistication, military prowess, and cultural influence. The Alaafin, as the paramount ruler, has always been the custodian of its traditions, the unifying force of the Yoruba people, and a bridge between the past and the future”.

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde while congratulating the new monarch said that the selection of Oba Owoade was carried out without any influence.

Governor Makinde emphasized that the selection of Oba Owoade was backed up by both the cultural rites, constitution and Oyo Indigenes, urging the aggrieved members to sheathe their sword for the progress of Oyo Town.

In his acceptance speech, Oba Owoade enjoined Oyo indigenes home and abroad to synegise with him  to bring an enhanced quality of life for all community members. 

The 46th Alaafin coronation was attended by globally reckoning individuals including the ambassadors of Spain, Canada, Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, Ooni of Ife, Olu of Warri , Oluwo of Iwo, southwest Governors, state and federal lawmakers, and Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yoruba, Iba Gani Adams.

Oba Owoade who succeeded late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi having reigned for 54 years is from the Agunloye ruling house in Oyo town.

Culture

The coronation of Oba Akeem Owoade comes up tomorrow, 5th of April, having completed the 21-day traditional rites known as Oro Ipebi last Saturday, 29th of March, 2025.

According to a statement by the Director of Media and Publicity to the Alaafin, Mr Bode Durojaiye, the coronation ceremony will take place at Oliveth Baptist High School, Oyo.

It says that Oba Owoade, who was presented with the staff of office and instrument of office on Monday, January 13, 2025, at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan, ascends the throne after the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III passed away.

Meanwhile, The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has urged indigenes and residents of the ancient city to celebrate with moderation.

He reminded them that beating the drums of vendetta, persecution, and acrimony were ill winds that would not blow anyone good.

Rasheedah Makinde

Culture

The Kano Emirate Council on Wednesday declared that it would not observe the annual Durbah ceremony during this year’s Eid-el-Fitr, coming up this weekend.

This would be the first time the Sallah Durbah would be cancelled in its over 700-year history.

The Emirate council said the Durban was cancelled due to the health condition of the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero, who is the custodian of the tradition of the people of the state.

However, a source close to the Emirate disclosed that the suspension of the Durban activities was mainly because of the prevailing security situation in the state.

Kano state, the commercial city in northern Nigeria, has recorded several attacks in the raging insurgency by the fundamentalist sect, Boko Haram.

A senior councillor in the Emirate, Alhaji Abbas Sanusi, on Wednesday while briefing journalists in Kano stated that “the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero, has directed me to inform all district heads and all other traditional rulers that traditional Sallah activities have been cancelled and everybody should stay indoor to celebrate the Sallah.’’

The Emir will only attend the Eid prayer on Sallah day,” he said.

Sanusi, who also holds the traditional title of Wamban Kano, added that “all other celebrations during Sallah, from Sallah homage, visit to the state governor and the traditional Hawan Nassarawa where he interfaces with his subjects, were cancelled given the health condition of the Emir

Sanusi urged the people to pray for the improved health of the royal father and for continuous peace in the state and the country.

Channels/ Oluwayemisi Owonikoko

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Culture

The Oyo State Police Command has debunked reports circulating on social media about an alleged attack on a farmer by herders in Ilowa-Gbade Village in Atiba Local Government Area of the state.

According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, Adewale Osifeso, there was a dispute over disagreement on grazing rights, which led to a fight between a 20 Year-old herder, Salau Isiaka, and a 25 Year-old farmer, Akinkunmi Tiamiyu.

According to the statement, the two men sustained serious injuries from the fight and are currently receiving medical attention at a healthcare facility.

The command urged the public to refrain from spreading unverified information that could incite fear and disturb public peace.

PR/Abisola Oluremi

Culture

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, has presented the staff and certificate of office to the new Eleruwa of Eruwa, Oba Samuel Adegbola.

The governor presented the instruments of office to the new Eleruwa at the Executive Chamber of the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan. 

He noted that he was glad that the lingering issues that prevented the historical town from having a traditional ruler have finally been settled.

The governor explained that his administration would continue to look for ways to advance the cause of development in each domain, stating that the importance of the traditional institution cannot be overemphasised.

Governor Makinde clarified that Oba Adegbola was nominated by the kingmakers of Eruwa and that all his government did was to endorse the nomination.

In his acceptance speech, the newly crowned Eleruwa, Oba Samuel Adegbola, pledged to work for the reconciliation of Eruwa people and join hands with other traditional rulers for the progress of the state. 

The stool of Eleruwa had remained vacant since Ọba Adegbola who was installed in 1998 was deposed on 29th November, 2019 by the Supreme Court of Nigeria.

Culture

By Isaac Haastrup

The Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba  Adesuyi Haastrup, says he will work with the state government and its panel of inquiry into the immediate and remote causes of the mayhem at Esa Oke as he sues for peace in the ancient town.

Oba Haastrup stated this when the Owamiran of Esa-Oke, Oba  Adeyemi Adediran came to brief him about the land and chieftaincy incident that disrupted the peace of the town, leaving about twenty-five people, including police, injured. 

The traditional ruler appealed to the people of Esa-Oke and Ido Ajegunle to eschew violence and embrace dialogue to resolve the lingering crisis between the two communities.

Describing the incident as disturbing and uncivil, the paramount ruler of Ijesaland urged the warring parties to sheathe their swords and allow dialogue to prevent further destruction of lives and property in the sleeping towns. 

Oba Haastrup urged  the Osun State police  command to intensity efforts at protecting the residents  while the investigation is ongoing

Earlier,  the Owamiran of Esa-Oke, Oba Adeyemi Adediran said he

narrowed escaped into the bush when the  perpetrators of the dastardly entered the palace and  set his Land Cruiser Jeep ablaze  

Ido Ajegunle is a border village between Ekiti and Osun State.

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Culture

By Mosope Kehinde

The Oyo State House of Assembly has condemned the derogatory remarks allegedly made by the former Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties and Strategy to late Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, Dr. Doyin Odebowale against the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, during a recent broadcast on a radio station in Ibadan. 

The lawmakers described the alleged derogatory comments as factually incorrect, disrespectful, and inciting.

In a motion sponsored by Mr Sanjo Adedoyin, Leader of the House, the Assembly noted the critical role of traditional institutions in preserving culture, heritage, and community cohesion in Oyo State.

The lawmakers observed that Dr Odebowale’s remarks breached the Nigeria Broadcasting Code of Ethics and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) Act, Cap N11, LFN 2004. 

They therefore urged the Executive Arm of Government to take proactive steps to safeguard traditional institutions in Oyo State.

The Assembly called on the Office of the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice to seek legal remedy against Dr Odebowale for making defamatory and inciting remarks against the Soun of Ogbomosoland. 

Furthermore, the lawmakers called on NBC to prevail on the FM Station to air a public apology on the issue, while also directing the station to retract the alleged misleading and offensive statements.

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Culture

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo State Government has inaugurated the committee for the coronation of the new Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abimbola Owoade as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo. 

The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Mr Ademola Ojo while inaugurating the committee said the coronation has been scheduled to hold on April 5, 2025 at Oliveth Baptist High School, Oyo. 

The commissioner said the development became imperative following the official presentation of the staff and certificate of office to Oba Owoade by Governor Seyi Makinde on January 13, 2025. 

Mr Ojo also disclosed that the installation committee has been divided into sub committees for effective coordination and planning towards a smooth coronation ceremony. 

The newly formed committee headed by Mr Demola Ojo comprises members from the Alaafin’s palace, the Oyo State Government, and other key stakeholders. 

The commissioner assured the public that all necessary arrangements are being made to ensure a successful and memorable coronation ceremony while security measures, cultural displays, and other logistical considerations are being planned to reflect the significance of the historic occasion.

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Culture

By Olufisoye Adenitan

Ondo state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa,has presented the instruments of appointment and staff of office to two kings in the southern senatorial district of the state.

The monarchs are Oba Hosea Fonghon who became the new Takunbe of Ipoke in Ese-Odo local government area while Oba Akinyomi John was installed as the Laragunsin of Ode-Iyansan in the Irele local government area.

Performing the ceremonies at a separate event , the governor, who was represented by his deputy, Olayide Adelami, called on the new monarchs to consider their installation as a call for the upliftment of their people and the traditional institution.

He Admonished the monarchs to exercise restraints and caution in the use of traditional authority and powers against the principles of the institution.

He appealed to the other contenders for the stools and their followers to rally the new kings and put behind them, the rivalry and acrimony that attended the selection process, charging them to cooperate with security operatives in their domains.

While thanking them for the overwhelming support in the 2024 governorship election in the state, the governor urged the people to participate actively in this Saturday’s local government election and conduct themselves in an orderly manner.

Remarking earlier, the permanent secretary in the state ministry of local government and chieftaincy affairs, Oladele Adesanmi, thanked Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for sustaining the sanctity of the selection process, adding that the new monarchs fulfilled all the provisions of the Chieftaincy Declaration of their communities and the extant chief laws of Ondo state.

Responding, the monarchs pledged to bring peace, unity and equitable development to their towns.

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Culture

By Kayode Animasaun 

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Ayedatiwa said his administration will no longer allow stools of traditional rulers to be unnecessarily vacant.

Governor Aiyedatiwa stated this at the opening ceremony of a public hearing on the draft of the Chieftaincy Declaration held in Akure the state capital.

Represented by the Commissioner for  Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr Amidu Takuro the governor described as unacceptable a situation whereby stools of monarchs were vacant for over 10 years due to litigation or other factors.

He said the draft of the Chieftaincy Declaration was aimed at making Ondo State a model for other states to copy in Nigeria and to put an end to unnecessary delay in throne ascension in all towns and communities in the state.

Governor Aiyedatiwa who lamented the rate of litigations surrounding Chieftaincy tussles across the state said there was the need for the state government to wade in by coming up with documents that would address succession plans for every traditional ruler.

Some traditional rulers at the event commended the state government for coming up with the public hearing, expressing the hope that the step would put an end to the Chieftaincy title crises.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update GroupBy Kayode Animasaun 

Culture

By Iyabo Adebisi/Kayode Oguntona

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has officially presented Staff of Office and certificate of appointment to the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, Prince Akeem Owoade, indicating the formal ascension of the new monarch to the revered throne of Alaafin of Oyo.

Governor Makinde, while presenting the instrument of office, believed that the new Alaafin would uphold the cultural and historical heritage of the Oyo Kingdom.

The governor said Alaafin of Oyo is not just a traditional ruler but a custodian of rich history and tradition, saying Oba Owoade would lead with wisdom, integrity, and a commitment to the unity of Oyo kingdom.

The new Alaafin succeeds the late Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, whose reign lasted for five decades.

The new Alaafin expressed gratitude to the people of Oyo with a promise to prioritize the development of the kingdom and the welfare of its residents.

The ceremony was held at the state government house, Agodi,Ibadan.

The event was attended by traditional rulers and leaders, government officials, and some Oyo indigenes.

In the meantime, the people of Oyo town are now set to welcome the new Alaafin, Oba Abdul Akeem Owoade. 

Towards this end, all markets, including the ancient Akesan market have been closed down while people have positioned themselves along major roads leading to the palace and family house of the monarch at Agure.

Speaking with Radio Nigeria, Iyaloja of Oyo, Alhaja Adijat Bakare explained that the suspension of trading activities was in consonance with the custom and tradition of Oyo people. 

Culture

By Olusola Agboola/Olaitan Oye-Adeitan

Born almost five decades ago, the newly approved Alaafin of Oyo, Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade hails from the royal Owoade-Agunloye family of Oyo.

He is one of the surviving children of Pa Rasaki Ibiyosi Owoade. 

His lineage traces back to Aremo Aderounmu Iyanda Owoade from Agure Compound, Oyo, embedding him deeply in the cultural and historical fabric of the Oyo Kingdom

Prince Owoade  attended Baptist High School, Saki, followed by obtaining a National Diploma and Higher National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering from The Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, and The Polytechnic, Ibadan. 

This educational foundation has shaped his analytical and technical skills.

Prince Owoade’s professional life spans continents, from being a Planning Engineer at Oil Reach Company in Glasgow, UK, to his current role as a Project Coordinator at Manitoba Hydro, Canada. 

He is also the president of 100279 Manitoba Limited, focusing on real estate and financial services, showcasing his business acumen and leadership in the corporate world.

Known for his deep community commitment, Prince Akeem has been a pillar of support for relatives, friends, and his community in both Nigeria and Canada. 

His philanthropy includes educational support, community projects, and aid during crises, reflecting his dedication to social welfare.

His vision for Oyo includes cultural preservation through initiatives such as building a museum, economic development via industrial parks, and youth empowerment through vocational training. 

Prince Owoade plans to collaborate with international bodies such as the ILO and UNDP to foster growth and opportunity in Oyo.

The selection of the Oyo born Prince as the Alaafin was unanimous among the Owoade-Agunloye family, recognizing his reliability, loyalty, and commitment to service. 

His blend of global experience with a profound respect for local traditions makes him a unique leader for Oyo.

The appointment of Prince Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo is expected to put to rest all the socio-legal disputes that have arisen since the former Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, joined his ancestors on April 22, 2022.

Culture

By Taiwo Akinola

After almost three years of waiting for another monarch, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has finally approved the installation of a new Alaafin of Oyo.

He is Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade.

A statement by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, explained that Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade was selected after thorough consultations and divinations, had been recommended by the Oyomesi and approved by the state Governor.

It noted that a statement to this effect had been issued by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ademola Ojo, saying the announcement has put to rest, all the socio and legal bickerings that have ensued since the demise of the former Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi. His Imperial Majesty, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III on April 22, 2022.

Culture

By Funmi Ojo

The Olojudo of Ido-Osun, Oba Olayinka Ishola has called on youths in the ancient town to allow peace reign.

The traditional ruler made the call while fielding questions from newsmen following attacks by some youths in the town.

Oba Olayinka described the attacks by some youths causing civil unrest in Ido osun area of the state as uncalled for.

He said the act of violence by suspected youths in the area is devastating, cautioning them to desist and allow peace to reign in the area.

The Olojudo of Ido-Osun promised that he would continue to support peace that the state is known-for.

Oba Olayinka, however, urged parents to caution their children not to engage in activities that may cause crises in the ancient town, vowing that anyone causing crisis in the area would face the wrath of the law.

The monarch lauded Governor Ademola Adeleke for his unwavering efforts in maintaining peace and stability in the state.

He also commended the security agencies for immediate action to maintain peace and order so as to ensure safety of the people in the area.

Culture

By Funmi Ojo

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has approved with immediate effect, the appointments of Prince Adesuyi Haastrup as the new Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijeshaland and Prince Johnson Adekanmi Abikoye as the new Asaoni of Ora Igbomina.

A statement by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi, indicates that the approval of the two monarchs was ratified and approved during the sitting of the Osun State Executive Council Meeting presided over by Governor Adeleke.

The appointments of Prince Haastrup as the new Owa Obokun-elect was sequel to the demise of the immediate past Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesha land, Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran II on the 11th of September 2024 while that of Prince Abikoye as the new Asaoni of Ora Igbomina followed the demise of Oba Tinuoye Atolagbe on the 19th of Nov.2023.

Governor Adeleke while congratulating the two newly approved monarchs whom he said their choices followed due processes in line with the Chiefs’ law of Osun State 2002 (cap 25), enjoined all sons and daughters of the two towns to co-operate with their new traditional rulers, particularly in allowing peace and unity to take the centre stage.

Also, Governor Adeleke during the State Executive Council meeting, the last in the year 2024, passed a vote of confidence on all members of his Executive Council for what he described as a job well done in the about to be concluded year.

The Governor who was extremely glad and happy for their performance, however, urged them to surpass the feats made by all of them in the coming year 2025 by being alive to their statutory duties and responsibilities as members of Osun State Executive Council.

Culture

By Mojisola Oladele

Former Deputy Governor of Osun State, Prince Clement Adesuyi Haastrup from Bilaro Oluodo ruling house has emerged as the Owa Obokun Ajimoko III and Paramount Ruler of Ijesaland.

His emergence was announced after an election by the kingmakers within the premises of Ilesa West Local Government Secretariat, in Ilesa.

Announcing the result, the Head of Local Government Administration in Ilesa West Local Government, Mrs. Felicia Olabimtan said Prince Clement Adesuyi secured the highest votes and emerged as the owa Obokun elect.

Mrs. Olabimtan said six of the kingmakers voted, while High Chief Adefioye Adedeji was absent and 7 others were not eligible.

In an interview with newsmen after the exercise , the Ogboni of Ibokun, Oba Festus Awogboro and the Elegboro of Ijesaland, Oba Olufemi Agunsoye described the exercise as peaceful , congratulating the Owa- elect and the smooth beginning of the new era in Ijesaland.

The kingmakers who converged on the local government complex included six Iwora mefa namely Obaala, High Chief Ibitoye; Ogboni Ipole, Oba Omokehinde Oyeleye; Ogboni Ijebu-jesa, Oba Olufemi Agunsoye ( Elegboro); Ogboni Ibokun, Oba Festus Awogboro; Ogboni Ilesa High Chief Saka Fapohunda; Oba Odo of Ilesa.

His name is expected to be forwarded to Governor Ademola Adeleke for approval.

Prince Clement Adesuyi Haastrup served as Deputy Governor to late Senator Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke during his tenure as the first civilian Governor of Osun State.

 

Culture

By Mojisola Oladele 

An Osun State High Court in Ilesa has ordered Governor Ademola Adeleke, and Ilesa kingmakers not to nominate a new Owa Obokun of Ijesaland.

The court’s decision followed a suit filed by Prince Debo Adeyemi and 10 others on behalf of members of the Ofokutu Royal Family of Bilaro Oluodo Ruling House.

In response to the application, Justice A. Aderibigbe granted the reliefs sought by the applicants, issuing an order of interim injunction dated 16th December 2024.

The applicants sought an order preventing Adeleke, his government officials, and Ilesa kingmakers from taking steps to appoint Haastrup or any other person as the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland pending the hearing and determination of the suit filed regarding the stool.

Justice Aderibigbe had adjourned the matter till 14th January 2025, for a hearing.

Reports have it that some ruling houses have been at loggerheads over who ascended the vacant throne.

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Culture

By Olusegun Folarin 

The Egba Traditional Council has suspended the Olu of Obafemi, Oba Taofeek Owolabi, for six months over allegations of land grabbing brought against him by a community association in Ogun State.

In a letter dated December 13, 2024, signed by the Alake of Egbaland and President of the Egba Traditional Council, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, the council cited Oba Owolabi’s failure to honour invitations by both the Ogun State House of Assembly, OGHA, and the council’s Ethical Committee.

The council noted that after its unsuccessful attempts to mediate through its Ethical Committee, invoked Section 36 (1) and (2) of the Ogun State Obas and Chiefs’ Law of 2021 to justify the suspension.

It declared that Oba Owolabi’s actions constituted behaviour entirely unexpected of anyone who has any claim to being a traditional ruler.

The suspension, effective immediately, bars Oba Owolabi from attending government functions or presenting himself publicly as the Olu of Obafemi during the six months.

The suspended Oba had in October been arraigned before a Magistrate Court sitting in the Owode-Egba Area of the state for allegedly defrauding one Michael Adeyemi to the tune of 75 million naira and assaulting a police officer.

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Culture

By Mosope Kehinde

The governor of Oyo State Engr. Seyi Makinde has approved the coronation and presentation of staff-of-office to the new Olubadan of Ibadanland Oba  Owolabi Olakunlehin. 

The ceremony is scheduled to be held on Friday, July 12, 2024.

This is contained in a statement by the commissioner for information Prince dotun oyelade.

The commissioner said ”’Our people must learn to be patient and believe an administration that has not let them down in 5 years.”

Oyelade said that insinuations and mischievous innuendos have not derailed Governor Seyi Makinde from the path of justice and fairness. 

He advised the people of Oyo State and Ibadan in particular to await the spectacle of the Coronation and presentation of the staff-of-office on July 12

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Culture

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo State Governor, Engineer ‘Seyi Makinde has approved the appointment of Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakuleyin as the 43rd Olubadan of lbadanland.

The governor gave the approval in a memo signed on June 14, 2024, in exercise of the powers conferred on him by Section 19 (Cap 28) Law of Oyo State 2000 as amended.

According to a statement by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Olusegun Olayiwola, the approval is a culmination of a series of processes stipulated by the extant laws of the state regarding ascension to royal thrones.

The statement added that the governor congratulated the new Olubadan, praying that his tenure will birth greater developments in Ibadanland and Oyo State as a whole.

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Culture

By Abimbola Bamgbose 

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has expressed the readiness of his administration to make the Ojude Oba festival a global event.

The governor, who made the remark the 2024 Ojude Oba Festival held at Awujale Pavilion in Ijebu-Ode, noted that the festival had grown from a mere gathering of Ijebu people to an event that attract both national and global audience.

According to the governor, the festival which had become a tourist attraction symbolized and reflected the collective unity of Ijebu known for hard work, perseverance and industry.

 Prince Abiodun observed the event created opportunities for advancement and brought about socio-economic development not only to Ijebu axis, but also the state as a whole.

While thanking President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for showing interest in expanding the festival, especially to include it in the UNESCO’s world cultural heritage, governor Abiodun emphasised that his administration was committed to providing the conducive environment in the state for business to thrive.

The Minister of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Honourable Hannatu Musa Musa-Musawa, who was represented by Mr. Ben Ugo, said her ministry was working towards promoting and preserving cultural heritage of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration with the creation of economic expansion to the tune of 100 billion dollars

He acknowledged the cultural diversity of Nigerians, noting that the federal government is working towards making the country a cultural hub in year 2030.

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Culture

By Iyabo Adebisi/Fasilat Bello

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo state says he has accepted the recommendation by the Olubadan in-council which nominated Oba Owolabi Olakuleyin as the next Olubadan of Ibadan.

He stated this while speaking at the final farewell ceremony for the 42nd Olubadan of Ibadan, His Imperial Majesty, Late Oba Mahood Lekan Balogun held at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Ibadan.

Governor Makinde said Oba Olakuleyin would be enthroned as the next Olubadan as soon as his current health condition improve pointing out that the recommendation for his enthronement as the next king in Ibadanland  would follow follow due process.

Governor Makinde said Oba Balogun would be greatly missed for his wisdom in Ibadanland and be remembered for his contributions to the growth and development of Ibadan and Oyo State.

The governor lauded the late Oba Balogun for working with the state government to achieve the seamless review of the Olubadan Chieftaincy Declaration in 2023.

Makinde said: “One thing I want us to take home today is that Kabiyesi Lekan Balogun and I did what people thought Napoleon could not do. 

“The Executive Arm of government and the Legislature, on the 26th of May, 2023, amended the Chieftaincy law of Oyo State, so that the governor does not need to go to the Council of Chiefs to amend the declaration of traditional rulers. 

“Kabiyesi Olubadan and I amended the Ibadan Chieftaincy Declaration. Those who are yet to see the document can go and look for it to confirm. That is the declaration to enthrone the Olubadan of Ibadanland.

“I have seen the recommendation of the Olubadan-in-Council and I have accepted it. Oba Olakulehin would be enthroned soon, because due process has been followed.”

“So, I want to once again thank you all and to console the family. We all lost Baba but we should take solace in the fact that Baba lived a very fulfilled life,” the governor said.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Senator Kola Balogun appreciated Governor Makinde for his unflinching support to the family since the demise of the Olubadan and prayed for smooth governance under his leadership. 

Former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai who is also the Aare Akinrogun of Ibadan described late Oba Balogun as a leader worthy of emulation who has served his community, the state and Nigeria meritoriously.

Present at the event were top government functionaries, business tycoons and traditional rulers.

Late Oba Lekan Balogun passed away on 14th March this year at the age of 81 after his reign on the Olubadan throne for two years.

Culture

By Moji Oladele

In order to restore the diginity of Traditional Rulers as custodians of culture, government at all levels have been urged not to interfere in Kingship positions, but rather allow Traditionalists of each tribe determine who becomes  kings.

A renowned Traditionalist and the Araba Awo of Osogboland, Chief Ifayemi Elebuibon made the Call during an interactive with Newsmen tagged ” Newspoint” in Osogbo, against the backdrop of recent happenings on dethronement and enthronement of Emir of Kano.

Chief Elebuibon stressed that Political Office Holders, especially Governors and local government chairmen should not interfere in the appointment of traditional rulers.

He frowned at the dethronement and enthronement of the Emir of Kano, describing the situation as a great dishonor to the traditional institution.

Responding on the high of food prices across the nation, Chief Elebuibon said the Present administration led by President Bola Tinunbu cannot be blamed hence, everyone should embrace Agriculture to boost food sufficiency.

Culture

The Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has ordered the immediate arrest of the deposed Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero.

The order was contained in a statement on Saturday by the Director General, Media and Publicity, Government House, Kano, Sanusi Tofa.

The governor said Bayero should be arrested for allegedly creating tension in the state.

The statement titled ‘Gov. Yusuf Orders Arrest of Deposed Emir of Kano Aminu Ado Bayero,’ read, “The Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has ordered the immediate arrest of the former Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, for creating tension in the state.“The former Emir was smuggled into Kano city last night in an attempt to forcefully return to the palace two days after being deposed by the governor.”

According to the statement, the new Emir, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, arrived at the palace in the company of the governor, the deputy governor, the Speaker of the state House of Assembly, and other top government functionaries at about 1 am on Saturday, May 25 2024.

“As the Chief Security Officer of the state, His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has directed the Commissioner of Police to arrest the deposed Emir with immediate effect for disturbing public peace and attempting to destroy the relative peace the state enjoys,” the statement added.

Bayero, whose whereabouts had been unknown since he was deposed on Thursday, returned to Kano on Saturday.

The state House of Assembly repealed the law that ex-Governor Abdullahi Ganduje had signed on December 5, 2019.

After signing the law, Ganduje split the emirate into five and appointed Emirs to each.

Upon signing the repealed Kano Emirates Council Law, Yusuf gave all the Emirs affected by the law 48 hours to vacate their palaces and hand them over to the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.

He subsequently announced the reinstatement of Muhammadu Sanusi, whom Ganduje had deposed in 2020 as Emir of Kano.

The governor issued a reappointment letter to Sanusi on Friday, and Sanusi led Jumat prayers at the Government House, Kano.

In the early hours of Saturday, Ado Bayero returned to Kano into the waiting hands of a crowd of supporters, according to a video sighted by Daily Trust.

On Friday, the governor reappointed Muhammadu Sanusi II as the 16th Emir of Kano.Sanusi received his letter of reinstatement at the Government House in Kano.

While presenting him with the letter, the governor said, “By the powers conferred on me by the Kano Emirate Council Law of 1984 and 2024, and supported by the recommendation of the kingmakers, I have the singular pleasure of confirming the reappointment of Muhammadu Sanusi II as the Emir of Kano and the head of the Kano Emirate Council.”

Punch/Olaolu Fawole