By Uche Onyeali
Ancient city of Ijebu Ode was practically locked down at the weekend, as people from all walks of life stormed the city for the installation of Tunde Odulaja as Lapo-Ekun of Ijebu Ode.
Agog with excitement and pageantry, indigenes, residents and visitors watched with admiration as the highly revered monarch, the Awujale of Ijebu land, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona conferred the prestigious title of Lapo Ekun on Odulaja.
Admonishing the newly decorated high chief to be a good community leader and show exemplary leadership, the monarch reminded Odulaja of his responsibilities to the town and the people.
The monarch also offered traditional prayers of good health and long life for the new community leader while reminding him of the need to be above aboard, being one of the 13 lawmakers that will pick the next Awujale.
Odulaja had earlier taken his oath of office and an oath of allegiance to the palace to kickstart the ceremony.
Dignitaries that graced the occasion include Ogun State government officials led by Governor Dapo Abiodun and his wife, Bamidele.
Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Tokunbo Talabi, and the Commissioner for Finance, Dapo Okubadejo, were on ground to support the governor.
Also around to witness the event was the Chief of Staff to the president, Femi Gbajabiamila, and a member of the House of Representatives, Ademorin Kuye, who was also honoured with a chieftaincy title as Otunba Ajana.
Others include Senator Gbenga Daniel, Senator Olorunibe Mamora, Otunba Seyi Oduntan, Otunba Lekan Bello and the Chairman of Ijebu Ode Local Government, Emilola Gazzal, among other notable personalities.
