The Natural Head of the Yoruba race and Chairman of the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC) under the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, Arole Oduduwa Olofin Adimula Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, has crowned Oba Olayinka Isola Jokotade Ilufemiloye II as the 47th Olojudo-Alayemore of Ido-Osun in Osun State.
The historic coronation ceremony, held on Saturday, May 24, 2025, drew a distinguished gathering of traditional rulers, political dignitaries—including the Executive Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Jackson Adeleke—community leaders, and proud sons and daughters of Ido-Osun from across Nigeria and the diaspora.
The event was not only a royal installation but also a vibrant celebration of Yoruba cultural identity and the enduring link between Ile-Ife and Ido-Osun, whose progenitor is rooted in the ancient cradle of the Yoruba civilization.
Hon. Bamidele Salam, Chairman of the Coronation Planning Committee and a member of the National House of Representatives, Abuja, described the event as a cultural renaissance.
He expressed confidence in the young monarch’s intellect and dynamism, stating that Oba Ilufemiloye II is poised to catalyze meaningful development in Ido-Osun.
“This coronation is a testament to our vibrant heritage,” Salam said. “We are committed to partnering with His Majesty to bring monumental progress to Ido-Osun. We urge the new monarch to uphold justice, equity, and prioritize infrastructural development during his reign.”
Governor Ademola Adeleke, who presented the new monarch with the Staff of Office and instrument of appointment, congratulated Oba Ilufemiloye II and commended the traditional institution for upholding long-standing customs throughout the selection process. He emphasized the need for unity following the enthronement.
“Kabiyesi, the period of contest is over. Now is the time to unify. I urge you to be a father to all, embracing every faction and promoting inclusive development,” Adeleke said.
He also advised the people of Ido-Osun to remain peaceful and law-abiding, assuring them of continued government support. “Let no one be used to disturb the peace of our state. Our progress is anchored on stability, and we must work together to maintain it,” the governor added.
In his royal address, Oba Olayinka Ilufemiloye II expressed gratitude to Governor Adeleke for his unwavering support. He pledged to lead with a focus on education, healthcare, and international development.
“Our town shall rise as a beacon of hope, even comparable to London,” the new Olojudo declared. “Forward ever, backward never.”
He also praised the Ooni for his spiritual and cultural guidance, urging detractors to desist from questioning the supremacy of Ile-Ife in Yoruba history.
“Baba Ooni, your role as the natural head of the Yoruba race is unquestionable. Those who challenge your position are jesters with polluted histories,” the monarch said.
“No Yoruba town or king can exist without Ile-Ife as their root. A son cannot be the father of his own father—unless he is a bastard.”
He warned that disrespecting the Ooni could set a precedent for younger kings to disregard traditional order. “Respect the Ooni to be respected; disrespect him, and junior kings will do the same to you.”
The ceremony climaxed as Ooni Ogunwusi personally placed the crown upon Oba Olayinka’s head, officially proclaiming him the 47th Alayemore of Ido-Osun and a member of the Osun State Council of Obas and Chiefs.
“I thank Governor Adeleke for his continued support of the traditional institutions in Osun State,” the Ooni stated. “All crowns emanate from the throne of Oduduwa in Ile-Ife. That is why I am honored to perform this sacred duty today.”
The coronation of Oba Olayinka Isola Jokotade Ilufemiloye II heralds a new era for Ido-Osun—one where tradition meets transformation under the leadership of a monarch chosen by history, guided by ancestral wisdom, and empowered by divine grace.
