………Hails traditional instituon’s role in State’s devt
By Precious Oluwole
Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has congratulated the Olubaka of Oka, Oba Yussuf Adebori Adeleye, on his elevation to the esteemed Council of Elders, describing the recognition as a testament to the monarch’s wisdom, leadership and unwavering service to his people.
The ceremony also featured the elevation of the Egbe Mabolaje of Ibaka Oka.
Speaking at the event held at Olubaka’s palace arcade ground, the Governor hailed the pivotal role of traditional institutions in maintaining security, social cohesion and development across the state, describing royal authority as a cornerstone of stability in the Sunshine State.
Governor Aiyedatiwa described the event as both historic and symbolic, noting that Oba Adeleye’s inclusion in the Ihare Council highlighted his wisdom, unblemished service and the dignity with which he has upheld the ancient stool.
He explained that Ihare is an exclusive circle reserved for individuals of exceptional character, integrity and influence and said the Olubaka’s peaceful and progressive reign made the honour a natural recognition of his leadership.
The Governor extended his congratulations to Oka sons and daughters at home and abroad and commended the Egbe Mabolaje, describing age-grade structures as custodians of unity and traditional discipline.
Repositioning the ceremony within the framework of governance, Aiyedatiwa reiterated that his administration would continue to uphold the dignity and relevance of monarchs, stressing that they remain dependable partners in security, conflict mediation and community stability.
He emphasised that their wisdom and prayers had contributed significantly to the state’s sustained peace and prosperity, urging residents of Oka-Akoko to remain united in support of their monarch.
“I warmly felicitate His Imperial Majesty, Oba Yussuf Adebori Adeleye, the Olubaka of Oka-Akoko, on the celebration of this year’s Ihare festival, which also coincides with his birthday,” the Governor said.
He noted that the Ihare festival, a revered initiation into the elders’ council, remains a defining cultural ceremony in Oka-Akoko.
“This year’s celebration is even more significant as it marks the 82nd birthday of a monarch whose life and leadership embody wisdom, dignity and unbroken devotion to his people,” he added.
Aiyedatiwa highlighted the Olubaka’s contributions as a pioneer member of the National Council of Traditional Rulers in Nigeria, former Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Obas and pioneer Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University, saying these roles have significantly advanced national and state development.
“I join the people of Oka-Akoko and the entire Ondo State in celebrating a renaissance monarch admired for his integrity, calm strength and consistent fatherly guidance. I recall with deep appreciation Kabiyesi’s wise counsel over the years and the example he continues to set in fairness, character and leadership. I pray that the Almighty grants His Majesty many more years of peace, prosperity and fulfilling service on the throne,” the Governor said, praying for continued peace and progress across Oka land.
Earlier in his address, the Olubaka of Oka -Akoko, Oba Yussuf Adebori Adeleye described his elevation as a transition into Ihare, a sacred grade rooted in age, wisdom, resilience and survival. Tracing his journey from school to the legal profession, the bench and eventually the throne, he stressed that every stage prepared him for service to Oka.
He explained that Ihare is conferred strictly by age, not wealth or titles and that the walking sticks bestowed on celebrants symbolise endurance, survival and wisdom rather than weakness. Drawing on Yoruba philosophy, he said honourable age cannot be separated from the battles one has survived.
The monarch described those awarded honorary titles as devout servants of God and Oka who uphold values such as humility, integrity, leadership and accountability.
He also explained the significance of the ceremonial colours, green and mint, royal blue and green-orange, royal blue and yellow, which symbolise life, royalty, hope and renewal.
He further underscored the foundational role of age-grade institutions in Yoruba land, describing them as moral compasses, law enforcers, conflict resolvers and community builders during periods when formal state structures were weak.
He said these institutions have been preserved and deployed under his reign to advance unity, education, health and peace across Oka land.
Urging celebrants, youths, women and guests to regard the ceremony as a covenant with history, the Olubaka prayed that their walking sticks would become symbols of strength, gratitude and long life.
Giving the vote of thanks, the Yeye Aare Arimuyangan of Oka Land, Senator Jackson Bent, commended the monarch for honouring them and called on the people of Ondo State to support Governor Aiyedatiwa’s vision for progress.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Transport, Akogun Olugbenga Omole, also expressed appreciation to the Governor, monarchs, and the people of Oka for making the event a success.
In attendance were; Special Adviser to the Governor on Legislative and party affairs, Hon. Kolawole Babatunde; Special Adviser to the Governor on Transport, Hon. Olugbenga Omole; Member representing Akoko South-West ii at the Ondo State House of Assembly, Hon. Tope Agbulu; Traditional rulers from Akoko; Chairman, Hospitals Management Board, Dr. Victor Ategbole; Chairman, SUBEB, Rt. Hon. Victor Olabimtan; Chairman, Akoko South-West Local Government, Hon. Ayo Ajana, among other eminent personalities.
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