Thrill as Ado-Awaye installs new traditional ruler

AFTER 34 years, the ancient town of Ado-Awaye, in Araromi Local Council Development Area, Oyo State  got a new traditional ruler, Oba Ademola Olugbile Folakanmi, Makuledoye II, Iludero I and the historical feat was marked with fanfare. From the seat of government of the state, topmost traditional rulers were guests of the indigenes who celebrated the ascencion on the throne of the new traditional ruler.

The immediate past Alado of Ado-Awaye reigned between 1961-1983 and since then the ancient community was embroiled in royal tussle before Oba Folakanmi was presented with the staff of office as the 13th Alado of Ado-Awaye.

As early as possible, the indigenes started roaming the corridors of the venue of the event, Ojude Oba, Ado-Awaye, to quench the 34 years’ thirst for a traditional ruler. Local drummers, traditional ewi exponents, local gymnasts and other traditional entertainers, all had various angles to express their excitement at seeing a new traditiobal ruler administer the town after three decades.

At last, the stage was set for the official presentation of staff of office, principal and distinguished guests arrived the venue of the ceremony led by the Governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi who was represented by the Director of Chieftaincy Affairs, Oyo State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Mr Zaccheus  Jaiyeola, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, among other traditional rulers from Oke-Ogun axis of the state who graced the occasion.

The day was set and the entire Ado-Awaye was in a frenzy mood, such they had waited for 34 years to experience.

The Chairman, coronation planning committee, a former deputy governor of Oyo State, Iyiola Oladokun, could not hide his joy, as he thanked all stakeholders who made the day a succeess. On behalf of the community, he thanked the governor of the state, Senator Abiola Ajimobi and Alaafin of Oyo for their determination at re-writing the history of the town positively during their time.

In his usual characteristic, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III challenged all traditional rulers in Yourba land to see themselves as symbol of tradition, customs and custodian of culture in their domains.

He said,”traditional rulers must be humble, courteous, reconciliatory and non-partisan and above all, must be father to all. They must show a sympathetic understanding of the traditions, customs, and religion of the people. Obas must not only be knowledgeable in the history and customs of their people but must also be sympathetic to the traditional religious festivals and rites of their kingdoms.”

Unveiling the new Alado of Ado-Awaye, Oba Reverend Ademola Olugbile Folakanmi, Makuledoye II, Iludero I, accountant cum cleric who had worked for the developement of the town for over three decades in different foras.

After receiving the Staff of Office from the state governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, the new monarch stated that he would dedicate his life to the service of his people and the Ado Awaye community.

In his acceptance speech, Oba Folakanmi who affirmed that it is an honour to accept the wish of the people of Ado-Awaye to become the 13th Alado of Ado-Awaye rededicated his heart of service to the town.

His words: “In accepting this honour of being the 13th Alado of Ado-Awaye, I hereby dedicate my life to the service of my people, the Ado-Awaye community and pledge to commit my knowledge, contacts, integrity and all endowment granted me by the almighty God to the growth and development of my people and the community. As the throne is established by righteousness, I pledge to be fair and just in all dealings for the betterment of all. I am grateful for this great honour and pledge to be a worthy ambassador that you will always be proud of.”

He further noted that his vision for the town and Araromi Local Development Area is to develop tourist centres across the LCDA.

He said “I promise to upgrade Ado-Awaye tourist centre to a world standard tourist centre, seeking the support of the concerned authorities to place Alado in his rightful position in the hierarchy of Oyo state Council of Obas and chiefs.”

He also promised to establish Oba Folakanmi Educational Subsidy Foundation, formation of Christian and Muslim Consultative Forum, Ado Awaye Alluviation Trust Fund, Anti Epidermic Policy, King Telecommunication System among others.