By Funmi Ojo

The Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, His Royal Majesty, Oba Clement Haastrup has pledged to uphold the traditional values of his domain and as well foster socio economic development and unity.

Oba Hastrup made the promise at his inaugural speech following his coronation as the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland.

The event which took place at the Owa’s Palace in Ilesa, Osun State, the monarch, who thanked God, said his ascension would mark a turning point in the advancement of his domain.

“This is a sacred trust, as custodian of the heritage of our forebears, I will work with all sons and daughters of the Ijesaland to preserve our legacy and build a future of peace, progress, and prosperity.”

In his address, the State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, who led the delegation of political leaders at the event, congratulated the new monarch, describing him as a man of honor, wisdom, and experience who would bring a “golden era” to Ijesaland.

Present at the coronation ceremony were Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barrister Bayo Lawal, former Governors of Osun state, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola and Mr. Isiaka Oyetola, CEO of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission NIDCOM, Mrs. Abike Dabiri-Erewa.

Traditional rulers from within and outside Osun State, include the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, Timi of Edeland, Oba Adesola Lawal, religious leaders, groups and associations of sons and daughters of Ilesa.

Oba Haastrup, a seasoned statesman and former deputy Governor to the first civilian Governor, late Senator Isiaka Adeleke was chosen after a rigorous selection process that followed the demise of the previous monarch, Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran II, who reigned for over four decades.

His coronation is being seen as both the continuation of an ancient lineage and a new chapter for the people of Ijesaland.

The event was laced with vibrant display of Yoruba culture including music, chants, dances, and the age-old rites of kingship handed down through generations

As the sun set over Ilesa, music of ace musician, Chief Ebenezer Obey, Musiliu Haruna Ishola and other musicians echoed through the streets, marking the dawn of a new reign for Ijesaland under the leadership of its 21st-century monarch.