pannigeriannews 
By Adelani Olawuyi
Six years ago, on Friday, November 13, 2020, Obada in Ogo-Oluwa Local Government Area of Oyo State witnessed a historic moment that ushered in a new chapter in its traditional history. It was a day the ancient town sang a new song, as sons and daughters gathered in large numbers to celebrate the emergence and installation of Olu Samuel Oladosu Oyekunle as the traditional ruler of Obada.
The atmosphere was electrifying. The legendary Ipata at Oluoje, venue of the historic ceremony, was overwhelmed by the mammoth crowd that converged to witness the occasion. It was a celebration marked by tradition, colour, excitement and an unmistakable sense of fulfilment among the people.
One of the defining moments of the ceremony was the symbolic placement of the sacred Akoko leaf on the head of the new monarch by the Otun Agoro of Oluoje Kingdom, High Chief Felix Adelakun. The traditional act signified the beginning of a new royal journey for Olu Oyekunle and his people.
The ceremony was further enriched by the royal blessing of His Royal Majesty, Oba Sunday Oladapo Oyediran, Lagbami Osekun III, the Onpetu of Ijeru Kingdom, whose presence and prayers added colour and significance to the occasion.
From Ipata, the celebration moved to Obada, as a convoy of vehicles stretching approximately two kilometres conveyed the new monarch to his domain. It was a remarkable procession, with residents lining the streets to welcome their traditional ruler. The convoy moved round the town amid jubilation, drumming and dancing, before the monarch retired to the Ipebi, the traditional place of seclusion, to begin the next phase of his royal journey.
Six years after that memorable day, the excitement of November 13, 2020, has become a cherished chapter in the collective history of Obada. For the people, the anniversary is not merely a celebration of the passage of time; it is an opportunity to reflect on the significance of having a traditional institution around which the community can rally, preserve its heritage and pursue a shared future.
Today, the sons and daughters of Obada, both at home and in the diaspora, join other residents in thanking Almighty God for the gift of their monarch. They also acknowledge the role played by Oba Sunday Oladapo Oyediran, Lagbami Osekun III, the Onpetu of Ijeru Kingdom, in the traditional process that culminated in the emergence of their king.
For the people of Obada, the occasion remains a testimony to a defining moment when hope was renewed and their traditional institution received a new identity. Their appreciation is perhaps best captured in the Yoruba expression, “Àwa ló ṣeyi fún”, an expression of gratitude that reflects their conviction that what they witnessed was an act of divine favour.
As Olu Samuel Oladosu Oyekunle marks six years on the throne, the occasion calls for renewed prayers for wisdom, sound judgment, good health and the grace to provide purposeful traditional leadership. The expectations of his people remain anchored on unity, peace, cultural preservation and the continued development of Obada.
Congratulations to His Royal Majesty, Olu Samuel Oladosu Oyekunle, on the occasion of his sixth installation anniversary. May his reign continue to witness peace, progress, prosperity and enduring goodwill among his people.
Long live the Olu of Obada! Long live Obada!
Vive le Roi!
About The Author
