Oba Joel CPS Oyatoye Olufayo II was officially crowned as the new Oloro of Oro Kingdom in Irepodun Local Government Area of Kwara State on Monday. At the age of 40, his coronation marked the return of his lineage to the throne after a 234-year absence. The ceremony was accompanied by traditional rites performed by the Oloro-in-Council, led by High Chief Otunola Taiwo, the Eesa of Oro Kingdom.
The Oro Kingdom, which consists of 11 autonomous communities, including Afin, Agbeola, Ido, Ijomu, Iludun, Irebode, Okeola, Okerimi, Otun, Olorunsogo, and Sie, witnessed a significant cultural moment with this coronation.
A Legacy Restored
Oba Joel CPS Oyatoye Olufayo II, born on January 27, 1984, to the Oyatoye Titiloye family of the Olufayo ruling house of Afin Oro, is a direct descendant of Oba Olufayo I, who reigned from 1785 to 1788 as the Oloro of Oro Kingdom. His coronation represents a return to the throne for his lineage, marking a historic moment for the community.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s Message
The Kwara State Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, was represented by his Special Adviser on Political Matters, Hon. Femi Agbaje Whyte, during the coronation. He congratulated the new monarch and urged him to lead with integrity, fairness, and compassion, stressing the importance of maintaining an open-door policy to foster the progress of Oro Kingdom.
Governor AbdulRazaq emphasized the role of traditional rulers in preserving cultural heritage, maintaining peace, and uniting communities. He further assured the people of Oro Kingdom of the state government’s continuous support for traditional institutions and development initiatives.
Traditional Leaders Weigh In
Oba Ismail Alebiosu, the Olupo of Ajase-Ipo and Chairman of the Irepodun Traditional Council, praised the state government for a seamless selection process in the emergence of the new Oloro. He urged the people of Oro Kingdom to embrace unity and avoid division. Oba Alebiosu also advised the new monarch to work closely with the Oloro-in-Council, chiefs, elders, and other traditional rulers to strengthen the unity and progress of the kingdom.
Cultural Significance and Future Development
Otunba Biodun Ajiboye, Executive Secretary of the National Institute of Cultural Heritage of Nigeria, highlighted the cultural importance of the coronation in preserving Nigeria’s rich heritage.
Dr. Thomas Adewumi, founder of Thomas Adewumi University, lauded Oro Kingdom for its self-help initiatives and economic progress. He commended Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration for its equitable development agenda and revealed plans for a new tertiary health institution in Kwara South, which will further the region’s growth.
A Call for Unity and Progress
In his remarks, Oba Alebiosu expressed confidence in the new monarch’s reign, stating, “The Kabiyesi has settled on the throne with divine support.” He urged all sons and daughters of Oro Kingdom to support Oba Olufayo II in ensuring the growth and development of the community. The coronation marked not only the restoration of a royal lineage but also a step forward in the kingdom’s unity and future prosperity.
