The Ooni of Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, has installed Chief Saka Awojoodu as the new Jaaran Adimula of the Source, reinforcing the continuity of one of the most revered traditional institutions in the cradle of Yoruba civilisation.
The revered monarch, who is the Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC) and Natural Head of the Oduduwa race worldwide, sanctioned the installation in keeping with the sacred customs and age-long traditions of the ancient city.
According to a statement issued by the Director of Media and Public Affairs at the Ooni’s Palace, Otunba Moses Olafare, the installation rites were conducted on Thursday at the historic Ile Oodua Palace in strict adherence to established traditional protocols guiding the elevation of high-ranking chiefs in Ile-Ife.
The Ooni was represented at the ceremony by the Idowu Adediwura, and the Adekola Adeyeye, who jointly led the sacred rites performed at Oke-Emese within the palace premises. The ceremony drew palace chiefs, traditional priests, and critical stakeholders within the Ife Traditional Council, underscoring the weight and spiritual significance of the office.
Following his formal installation, the newly appointed Jaaran Adimula embarked on a symbolic procession across major compounds and sacred sites within Ile-Ife. Accompanied by traditional priests and palace functionaries, the movement formed an integral part of the spiritual rites required to assume the full responsibilities of the exalted office.
Speaking during the ceremony, Oba Idowu Adediwura urged Chief Saka Awojoodu to discharge his duties with integrity, humility, and unwavering loyalty to the Throne of Oduduwa. He stressed the importance of safeguarding the sanctity of the institution and upholding the cultural codes that define the identity of the Ife people.
In his remarks, Oba Adekola Adeyeye described the elevation as a call to greater service, encouraging the new Jaaran to work harmoniously with fellow kingmakers and palace chiefs to strengthen unity within the traditional council and contribute meaningfully to the stability and development of Ile-Ife.
In his acceptance speech, Chief Saka Awojoodu expressed profound gratitude to the Ooni for finding him worthy of the prestigious office. He pledged unalloyed loyalty to the throne and vowed to uphold the traditions, values, and responsibilities attached to the title. He further assured the palace and the people of Ile-Ife of his commitment to protecting the cultural heritage of the land while supporting initiatives that promote peace, unity, and sustainable progress.
Prior to his elevation, Chief Saka Awojoodu held the title of Yegbata of Ife and served as Head of the Emeses — the royal guards of the Ooni’s Palace — positions that prepared him for his new responsibilities within the hierarchy of the traditional institution.
The Jaaran Adimula is a senior member of the Ife kingmakers and plays a pivotal role in matters of tradition, succession processes, and advisory functions within the palace. By hierarchical ranking, the Jaaran stands next in line to the Lowa Adimula. Notably, the current Lowa Adimula, Oba Adekola Adeyeye, previously occupied the position of Jaaran Adimula before his elevation to Lowa Adimula by the Ooni.
With this installation, the Ooni of Ife once again demonstrates his enduring commitment to strengthening traditional governance structures and preserving the spiritual and cultural foundations upon which Ile-Ife — the Source of the Yoruba race — stands.
