Colour, culture as Afa Okeagbe celebrates Ajana’s one year on throne

It was pomp and pageantry in Afa Okeagbe, Akoko North-West Local Government Area of Ondo State, on Saturday, August 23, 2025, as indigenes at home and abroad trooped out to celebrate the first coronation anniversary of their monarch, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Mofolorunso Adegboyega Arasanyin, the Ajana of Afa Okeagbe, Okeladeokin, Arole-Agba I.

The palace grounds hosted dignitaries from across the state, including the Chairman of the Council of Obas in Ondo State, the Olowo of Owo, Oba (Dr.) Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, Odundun II, alongside other traditional rulers, chiefs, and community leaders.

Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, represented by the Commissioner for Water Resources and Public Sanitation, Elder Ayodele Samson Akande, and the Minister of Interior, Hon. Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, represented by Hon. Adetileewa Fafunmilade, were also in attendance.

In his anniversary speech, Oba Arasanyin described his emergence as monarch as “a period that tested the unity, patience, and determination” of the people. He commended the kingmakers for their courage and integrity in upholding the people’s will.

“By the grace of God, the will of the people, and the steadfastness of our kingmakers, I emerged as your chosen Ajana. For this, I remain eternally grateful,” he said.

The Ajana highlighted his first-year achievements, which include installing new chiefs to strengthen traditional institutions, revitalizing the Afa Oba and Chiefs’ Council, awarding scholarships to students, securing more medical personnel, restoring the Chief Magistrate’s Court to Okeagbe after an 18-month absence, and establishing an ICT centre for youth empowerment.

Looking ahead, he unveiled plans to expand the scholarship scheme, launch a micro-credit facility for young entrepreneurs, implement a Back-to-Farm policy to boost food security, and begin the construction of a modern palace.

In his goodwill message, Governor Aiyedatiwa commended the monarch for “exemplary leadership, wisdom, and a tireless commitment to the well-being of your people.” He noted that under Oba Arasanyin’s reign, Afa Okeagbe has enjoyed peace and unity, adding that his government would continue to work with traditional rulers to deliver the dividends of democracy.

“On security, I cannot but acknowledge the cooperation and support of all the palaces towards fighting crimes, banditry, kidnappers and armed robbers from our domains,” Aiyedatiwa added.

Similarly, the Chairman of Akoko North-West Local Government, Hon. Esan Owolabi, praised the monarch as a bridge-builder whose reign has brought unity and progress to Afa Okeagbe and Akokoland at large.

In their tributes, the Olowo of Owo and the Deji of Akure described Oba Arasanyin as a ruler known for humility, wisdom, and commitment to his people’s progress. They urged the community to rally behind the Ajana, stressing that monarchs remain vital pillars of peace, unity, and development.

The colourful event featured prayers, traditional dances, and cultural displays, leaving the community with renewed hope for greater achievements in the years ahead.