Tejuoso celebrates 37th coronation anniversary, advocates moral rebirth through character, education

The Osile of Oke-Ona Egbaland, Oba Adedapo Tejuoso, has called for the strengthening of character and education in schools as part of efforts to address moral decadence and social vices among youths in the country.

The monarch lamented what he described as rising indiscipline among young people, attributing the trend to the diminishing fear of God and declining moral teachings in schools and homes.

Oba Tejuoso made the call while addressing journalists at his palace in Abeokuta ahead of activities marking his 37th coronation anniversary on the throne, stressing the need for urgent moral reorientation among the younger generation.

He urged government at all levels to make Islamic and Christian Religious Studies compulsory in primary and secondary schools, as strong spiritual and moral education will help nurture disciplined and responsible citizens.

The monarch lamented reports of students engaging in unruly conduct, including acts of violence and disrespect towards teachers, noting that such behaviour was uncommon in previous generations when religious teachings formed part of students’ upbringing.

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According to him, the absence of strong Biblical and Qur’anic teachings in schools has contributed significantly to the moral decline among youths.

He added that children exposed to godly teachings from an early age are more likely to grow into responsible adults.

As part of the anniversary celebration, Oba Tejuoso announced a 37-hour marathon praise programme at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library to appreciate God for His faithfulness throughout his reign and encourage people to draw closer to God.

Speaking on the significance of the celebration, the Balogun of Oke-Ona Egba, Chief Morufu Ajisegiri, described the monarch’s reign as one marked by purposeful leadership, impactful service and enduring connection with the people.

Ajisegiri commended him for various developmental initiatives across the 10 towns of Oke-Ona Egba, particularly in human capital development, cultural preservation and institutional growth, while also acknowledging his efforts in expanding scholarship opportunities for indigent students of Oke-Ona extraction.

Activities lined up for the celebration include visits to motherless babies’ homes and lepers’ colonies, the final will be an Ayo game competition, township homage and other events designed to promote unity, compassion and cultural heritage in the kingdom.