There was widespread jubilation and an impressive display of cultural splendour in Ijan-Ekiti, Ekiti State, on Friday as Asiwaju Yinka Fasuyi and his wife, Dr. Olubisi “Yeye-Asiwaju” Fasuyi, were formally installed as Baba Oba and Yeye Oba of the town.
The historic ceremony, held at the Onijan Palace Square, reinforced Ijan-Ekiti’s rich traditional heritage and attracted royal fathers, traditional chiefs, community leaders, dignitaries and residents, who turned out in large numbers to witness the occasion. The palace square hall was filled to capacity, with many attendees standing outside. The Onijan-in-Council was fully represented, while women—some adorned in uniformed attire—and youths were visibly present, adding colour and vibrancy to the gathering.
Proceedings commenced with opening prayers led by Alhaji Akingbade, Chief Imam of the Ijan Central Mosque. The installation rites were performed by His Royal Majesty, Oba Adebanji Lawrence Aladesuyi, Afayagbekun I, the Onijan of Ijan-Ekiti, with the support of Olori Ololade Aladesuyi.
Among prominent personalities at the event were HRM Oba Sunday Ishola Ibironke, the Awaraja of Iwaraja-Ijesa, and HRM Oba Adeyeye Bamidele Olowookere, the Olumelu of Imogbara-Ijesa. Other notable guests included Chief Tunde Falasinna, Engr. Sola Ayeni, Chief Akinwale Sodipo, Otunba Kayode Oduntan, Mr. Tunji Onafuwa, Mr. Femi Ajala, and Mr. Yemi Alatise of the World Bank, among others.
Speaking on behalf of the Ijan-Ekiti Day Planning Committee, Mr. Dele Morakinyo said Asiwaju Fasuyi was unanimously chosen due to his long-standing relationship with the community and his commitment to human and community development. He described Fasuyi as a “visionary catalyst for Ijesaland development,” noting that his passion has consistently been about improving lives.
Also speaking, the Vice Chairman of the Planning Committee, Chief Jimoh Akingbade, recalled that the last Baba Oba of Ijan-Ekiti was Chief Obafemi Awolowo, adding that Fasuyi fits squarely into that legacy. He described the new Baba Oba as the “Chancellor of Ijan-Ekiti.” A minute of silence was observed in honour of the late Asiwaju Ajayi, former Chairman of the Planning Committee.
Royal fathers present offered goodwill messages, assuring the people of Ijan-Ekiti that their association with Asiwaju Fasuyi would bring lasting benefits. They prayed for a sustained, peaceful and fruitful relationship between the Baba Oba and the community.
The programme featured the reading of citations, conferment of chieftaincy titles and traditional installation rites, including the symbolic use of kolanuts, gin and water, in line with Yoruba customs.
In his acceptance speech, Asiwaju Yinka Fasuyi emphasized community empowerment and sustainable development, describing himself and his wife as “indigenes by service.” He announced a health insurance scheme for 50 women and 50 men aged 60 years and above in Ijan-Ekiti, as well as agricultural training opportunities for 10 youths at the Leventis Agricultural School, Ilesa, with free tuition, feeding and monthly stipends.
Goodwill messages were also delivered by dignitaries, including Chief Tunde Falasina, who described Fasuyi as a workaholic and a uniquely gifted individual, and Engr. Sola Ayeni, who commended the Onijan and the people of Ijan-Ekiti for what he described as a well-considered and visionary decision.
In a vote of thanks, Chief Osatuyi Obalode expressed appreciation to all guests, royal fathers and stakeholders for honouring the invitation and supporting the community.
The ceremony also highlighted a series of chieftaincy recognitions previously conferred on Asiwaju Fasuyi and his wife by several monarchs across Ijesaland and Ekiti communities, reflecting the widespread recognition of their contributions to grassroots development, philanthropy and the promotion of Yoruba cultural values.
The event concluded with a closing prayer by Rev. Adegoke and featured traditional music, chants and colourful cultural performances, as residents described the occasion as a proud and memorable moment for Ijan-Ekiti and its surrounding communities.
More Photos: Coverage, Script ✍️ Camera 📸 Credit: Oladimeji Lasore (+2347035105413, [email protected])
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