From Richard Akintade, Osogbo
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has called on the newly crowned Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesaland, His Imperial Majesty Oba Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, Ajimoko III, to serve as a pillar of unity and a bridge between the rich heritage of the Ijesa people and the bright promise of Nigeria’s future.
Delivering the President’s message at the coronation ceremony held in Ilesa on Friday, the Minister emphasized the central role of traditional institutions in nation-building and social cohesion. The historic occasion marked the formal ascension of Oba Haastrup as the 41st paramount ruler of the ancient Ijesaland kingdom.
In the address, he described the coronation not merely as a royal ceremony, but as a reaffirmation of the Ijesa people’s time-honoured traditions and values.
“This occasion is not only a crowning of a king but a reaffirmation of centuries of tradition, wisdom, and dignity that define the soul of Ijesaland”, Oyetola said.
He praised Oba Haastrup for his leadership, humility, and intellect—qualities he said will be crucial in uniting his people and inspiring development.
“I charge Your Majesty to continue to be a pillar of unity and a bridge between the past and the promise of tomorrow”, Oyetola urged. “Our nation yearns for peace, equity, and progress, and traditional rulers like yourself have a vital role to play in achieving this vision”.
As part of the Renewed Hope Agenda, Oyetola reaffirmed President Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to grassroots development, announcing that the President has ordered the release of an intervention fund for the rehabilitation of the Ibadan-Ife-Ilesa expressway, an infrastructure lifeline critical to the economic vitality of Osun and neighbouring states.
He also hailed the people of Ijesaland for their enduring contributions to national growth, describing the region as “a land of honour, industry, and distinction” that has produced leaders of “brilliance, conscience, and character”.
The coronation drew dignitaries from across Nigeria, including royal fathers, political leaders, cultural enthusiasts, and citizens who thronged to Ilesa to witness the event.
He expressed hope that Oba Haastrup’s reign would usher in a golden era for Ijesaland and strengthen the bonds of cultural pride, economic progress, and national unity.
“May your palace be a sanctuary of justice, dialogue, and service. May your reign be long, peaceful, and prosperous”, he concluded.
In his address, Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State described the late Owa Obokun, Dr Adekunle Aromolaran as a father figure, a top scholar and a sound businessman saying he was the builder of modern Ijesha land.
According to Governor Adeleke, “The successor of the late Owa, the new Owa Adimula is a gentleman with loyalty and patriotism as his trademarks.
“As the Deputy Governor to my late brother, the first Executive Governor of Osun State, late Senator Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke, our new Owa Adimula demonstrated absolute loyalty and supportive backing.
“As a businessman, he climbed to the top of the ladder in his sector, making him one of the most successful business executives in Nigeria.
“Our new monarch, Oba Adesuyi Haastrup is a socialite with public interest at heart, a philanthropist with a big impact on the society and a leader with a truly large heart.
“I congratulate the good people of Ijesa land on this historic occasion when a leader of repute is ascending the throne of his forefathers”.
