In a significant display of royal tradition and ancestral reverence, the Ooni of Ife and natural head of the Yoruba race, Arole Oduduwa, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II, received the newly installed Oluoke of Okeigbo, Oba Akintoye Adeoye, at the revered Ile Oodua Palace.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Director of Media and Public Affairs at the Ooni’s Palace, Otunba Moses Olafare, the visit formed part of traditional rites as the Ondo State monarch prepares for his official coronation.
Oba Adeoye was accompanied by his wife, Olori Adeola Akintoye, alongside a delegation of traditional chiefs from Okeigbo.
Speaking during the audience, the Oluoke expressed profound gratitude to the Ooni for his steadfast support and fatherly role throughout his journey to the throne. He revealed that he received his staff of office in November 2025, noting that the process of his emergence was greatly aided by the Ooni’s guidance and influence.
“I am always delighted to come to this palace. You have continued to uphold the dignity of traditional institutions and promote our culture. I have just ascended the throne, having received my staff of office in November 2025. I am here to thank you for your support in ensuring my journey to the throne was smooth,” the monarch stated.
Oba Adeoye further disclosed that his coronation ceremony has been scheduled for April 25, 2026, extending a formal invitation to the Ooni to attend as the Father of the Day.
“I have come to seek your ancestral blessings and to personally invite you to my coronation. Your presence will be a great honour and will further strengthen our traditional institutions,” he added.
In their separate remarks, senior Ife chiefs offered guidance to the monarch. The Lowa Adimula, Oba Ademola Adeyeye, charged the Oluoke to remain committed to the preservation of Yoruba culture, urging him to lead with humility, wisdom, and a deep sense of responsibility.
Similarly, the Obalufe of Ife, Oba Idowu Adediwura, advised the monarch to uphold justice, fairness, and accountability, while maintaining a strong connection to the spiritual and historical roots of Ile-Ife.
Responding, the Ooni congratulated Oba Adeoye on his ascension, commending his humility and dedication to service. He emphasised the need for inclusive leadership, urging the monarch to prioritise unity, peace, and the overall development of Okeigbo.
The Ooni further encouraged him to remain accessible to his people, listen to their concerns, and foster harmony within his domain, noting that sustainable progress can only be achieved in an atmosphere of peace.
In a deeply symbolic highlight of the visit, the Ooni offered ancestral prayers and royal blessings for the Oluoke, invoking divine wisdom, strength, and guidance for a successful reign. He also prayed for enduring peace, prosperity, and stability across Okeigbo.
Reaffirming his commitment to the unity of traditional institutions across Yorubaland, the Ooni underscored the importance of collaboration among monarchs in preserving cultural heritage and advancing socio-economic development.
