In line with the rich customs and time-honoured traditions of the ancient city of Ile-Ife, the Ooni of Ife, Arole Oduduwa, Olofin Adimula, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, D.litt, Ojaja II, has approved the appointment of Prince Olagoke Owoyomi as the new Obajio of Ife.
The announcement was made in a release signed by Otunba Moses Olafare, Director of Media & Public Affairs, Ooni’s Palace, marking the conclusion of a meticulous screening exercise conducted by a five-member committee constituted by the Ooni-in-Council.
The statement further added that the committee's report was formally conveyed through the Obalufe of Ife and unanimously endorsed by the Ife Traditional Council.
Prince Olagoke Owoyomi hails from the Alayo Ruling House of Moore, Ile-Ife, and emerged as the preferred candidate following a rigorous selection process involving three eligible princes.
The contenders included Prince Olagbenga Owoyomi, a South Africa-based HND holder also from the Alayo Ruling House, and Prince Kola Ogunrinola of the Bamidein Ruling House.
According to the screening committee’s report, Prince Olagoke Owoyomi—who holds a Secondary School Certificate—is a resident of Ile-Ife, a farmer, and a successful businessman.
His deep-rooted knowledge of Ife’s traditions and culture, coupled with his character and community-oriented disposition, distinguished him among the contenders.
The final report of the committee was signed by all five members: High Chief Olusegun Arasanmi, Aguro of Ife; HRM Oba Muritala Adedoyin, Owakogun of Okerewe-Ife; Chief Oyeyemi Oriowo, Sarun Oodua of Ife; Chief Lawrence Awowoyin, former President of the Ife Development Board; and Barrister Muritala Agboola.
Their collective endorsement affirmed the integrity of the process and the credibility of the appointment.
The official letter of appointment, personally written by His Imperial Majesty and read publicly by the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Otunba Moses Olafare, reads in part:
“I, Arole Oduduwa, Olofin Adimula, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, D.litt, CFR, Ojaja II, Ooni of Ife, hereby appoint you as the Ejio of Ife.
"This appointment is in recognition of your integrity, dedication to the values of our heritage, and proven commitment to the service of the Ife Kingdom.
"The position of Ejio is a revered and responsible one, rooted in history and culture, and essential in the continued guardianship of our customs and leadership structure.
"As the Ejio of Ife, you are expected to uphold the dignity of the title, serve with loyalty, wisdom, and humility, and contribute to the unity, peace, and progress of Ile-Ife and her people.
"Your installation and formal presentation shall be communicated in due course in accordance with palace protocols and customary rites.”