Otufesojoye of Irete-Ijebu Calls for Greater Government Presence In the community*

As the ancient town of Irete-Ijebu prepares for the grand celebration of the 4th coronation anniversary of its monarch, His Royal Highness, Oba (Dr.) Olusegun Awokoya-Yesufu, the Otufesojoye of Irete-Ijebu Kingdom, the palace has become a center of renewed dialogue on development, culture, and the future of the kingdom.

At a press briefing held within the royal courtyard, the Otufesojoye spoke passionately about the growing needs of his people and the responsibility of government and investors to meet them. While acknowledging that some progress had been made, he insisted that more must be done to serve the rising population, which now includes a growing number of students from a tertiary institution in the area, as well as an expanding base of artisans and small-scale entrepreneurs.

"Our people need schools. We need hospitals. We need secondary schools and primary schools for our children,” 

“Our people need schools. We need hospitals. We need secondary schools and primary schools for our children,” the monarch declared, his voice firm yet hopeful. “Our people need schools. We need hospitals. We need secondary schools and primary schools for our children,” the monarch declared, his voice firm yet hopeful. “The government is trying—the local government under Hon. Tunde

 

Diya gave US twenty solar lamps for our streets, and we appreciate that—but more still needs to be done.” government is trying—the local government under Hon. Diya gave us twenty solar lamps for our streets, and we appreciate that—but more still needs to be done.”

The king emphasized that Irete-Ijebu, once considered a quiet community, is fast transforming into a hub of cultural pride, education, and commerce.

Hon Tunde Diye, Chairman Odogbolu LGA

 

He called on both state authorities and private investors to seize the opportunity by providing critical infrastructure and social amenities that will unlock the full potential of the kingdom.

With the upcoming anniversary as a backdrop, Oba Awokoya-Yesufu promised that the October 4, 2025 celebration would showcase “the beauty and splendour of the kingdom.” The event, expected to draw eminent Ijebu sons and daughters from across the globe, will not only highlight tradition and pageantry but also reaffirm the unity and progress of Irete-Ijebu.

On the issue of peace and stability, the monarch assured that his domain remains secure. “Our communities are living peacefully,” he said. “We resolve our disputes through dialogue and collaboration. That is our way.” His words underscored the resilience of Irete-Ijebu people, who continue to balance tradition with the demands of modern growth.

The press also sought his views on the ongoing controversy surrounding the process of selecting a new Awujale of Ijebuland. Without hesitation, the Otufesojoye reminded all that Irete-Ijebu shares a deep historical connection with the throne. “Our sons and daughters who are eligible princes are also eligible for the Awujale stool,” he affirmed. “Our ancestor, Oyenuyi, was both an Awujale and the first king of Idowa. That lineage and legacy remain with us.”

Fusengbuwa Ruling House Gets Set to Elect New Awujale

 

With the passing of the revered Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona after a 65-year reign, the mantle of succession now rests on the Fusengbuwa ruling house, whose turn it is to present the next Awujale of Ijebuland.

At a unification meeting held at Oba Adesimbo Tunwase Court, Ijebu Ode, members of the royal lineage reconciled long-standing differences and selected a new Olori Ebi (family head) to guide the succession process.

After heated exchanges from opposing camps, consensus was reached as Otunba Abdulateef Owoyemi, former President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), was appointed to succeed Dr. Kunle Hassan, who voluntarily stepped down.

In his acceptance speech, Owoyemi pledged inclusiveness and transparency:

“For over forty years I have walked in the corridors of this ruling house. By the grace of Almighty God, every voice shall be heard, and every prince given his chance. My leadership will be open, fair, and just — for the throne we serve is greater than us all.”

Addressing reporters after the meeting, His Royal Highness, Oba Dr. Olusegun Awokoya Yesufu, the Otufesojoye of Irete-Ijebu Kingdom, commended the family for resolving disputes peacefully.

“What happened today shows that unity is stronger than division. The Awujale throne is bigger than personal ambition. Let us rally behind the new Olori Ebi and keep the pride of the Ijebu nation intact,” he said.

In his parting remarks, Dr. Hassan expressed gratitude and offered his support:

“Leadership is service, and every service has its season. I hand over with gratitude and urge all members of our house to support Otunba Owoyemi. The glory of Ijebuland must continue to shine.”

With a new family head now in place, the Fusengbuwa ruling house has set its course toward presenting a worthy successor to one of Africa’s most prestigious thrones — the Awujale of Ijebuland.

Among the prominent members of the Fusengbuwa royal family from the Jadiara dynasty present at the event were His Royal Highness, Oba Dr. Olusegun Awokoya Yesufu, the Onirete of Irete-Ijebu, Otunba Dosumu Saheed, Otunba Olumide Adesanya, and Hon. Justice ‘Tayo Lamina, among others.

Oba Awokoya-Yesufu Champions Partnership Between SACOETEC and Irete-Ijebu

In Irete-Ijebu, tradition and progress are meeting at a powerful crossroads. The Onirete, Oba Dr. Olusegun Awokoya-Yesufu, has called for a bold partnership between the town and the Sikiru Adetona College of Educatio n, Science and Technology (SACOETEC)—a collaboration he believes can shape the destiny of both the school and the community.

The monarch made this declaration during a recent courtesy visit to the institution’s management, where his message was clear: the future of Irete-Ijebu lies in uniting local leadership with academic innovation.

“SACOETEC’s presence in our community presents an enormous opportunity—not only for academic excellence but also for economic and social development,” Oba Awokoya-Yesufu noted, emphasizing education as a cornerstone of transformation.

A Vision Beyond the Classroom

Oba Awokoya-Yesufu urged SACOETEC to deepen its footprint in the community by championing projects that extend beyond the lecture halls. He highlighted the need for an ICT hub, research tailored to community development, and programs that provide both jobs and skills for local youth.

“Education,” he said, “must be more than theory. It should be the foundation upon which our people build brighter futures.”

 

The School’s Commitment

The Provost, Dr. Modupe Ayodele Oba-Adenuga, welcomed the royal charge with enthusiasm, affirming the institution’s commitment to its host town. She revealed that new initiatives—such as vocational training and expanded community service programs—are already in motion, designed to directly benefit the youth and families of Irete-Ijebu.

 

Shared Goals for Growth

Community voices echoed this vision. Otunba Saheed Dosumu, a respected leader, described the meeting as a blueprint for strengthening ties between traditional institutions and centers of learning ancross Ogun State. He stressed that partnerships of this kind align education with the real needs of society, making growth both inclusive and sustainable.

 

A Blueprint for Tomorrow

The gathering underscored a new reality for Irete-Ijebu: that development is no longer the sole preserve of government but a shared responsibility anchored in collaboration. With the leadership of Oba Awokoya-Yesufu and the support of SACOETEC, the community is stepping into a future where education fuels empowerment, and tradition powers progress.

"I DIDNT KNOW I WAS MARRYING A JAGABAN" - FIRST LADY OF NIGERIA, REMI TINUBU

"I never knew I was getting married to a Jagaban. I thought we will be going for vacation, enjoying ourselves as simple family.

I didn't bargain for the trauma I suffered during his NADECO days. I'm still suffering from the trauma till date. He has become father and friend of all, you can't even say bad things about his friends to him, no matter what the friends have done negatively to him, he won't disparage his friends before his family and if you have nothing good to say about his friends, you'd better not say anything to him at all. 

But I have no iota of regret marrying him, although I didn't bargain for a life of struggle that he has chosen for himself and obviously, me too...."

- Senator OluremI Tinubu.

"Fake Obas Beware: Lagos Cracks Down on Olu of Epe Impersonators"

Bolaji Kayode Robert

The Lagos State Government has issued a strong warning to impostors falsely claiming the revered title of Olu of Epe, following the recent passing of Oba Shefiu Adewale on May 31, 2025.

In a statement by the Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Mr. Bolaji Kayode Robert, the public—especially Epe residents—was reminded that no one has been officially approved or recognised as the new Olu of Epe.

He stressed that the selection and installation of traditional rulers in Lagos follow strict legal and administrative protocols, which are yet to commence in this instance.

The government urged citizens to disregard self-proclaimed Obas and warned against offering them any traditional or formal recognition.

Security agencies have been instructed to maintain peace in Epe and take legal action against impersonators under the Lagos State Law on Obas and Chiefs.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration reaffirmed its commitment to due process, rule of law, and the preservation of peace in all communities.

Breaking: Lagos State House of Assembly Resolves Leadership Dispute

The Lagos State House of Assembly has resolved its leadership dispute, with Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda emerging as the consensus choice for Speaker. 

This decision follows a meeting between the Assembly members and the Governor's Advisory Council (GAC), where the proposal to appoint a new Speaker from Lagos West was met with strong opposition from lawmakers 

The lawmakers instead reaffirmed their confidence in Rt. Hon. Meranda's leadership, dismissing the idea of selecting a new Speaker. This development brings to an end the uncertainty surrounding the Assembly's leadership, which arose following the removal of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa.

Rt. Hon. Meranda, who was elected as Speaker on January 13, 2025, has pledged to work harmoniously with the Executive arm of government. Her leadership has been hailed by lawmakers, who expressed satisfaction with her performance so far.

With this resolution, the Lagos State House of Assembly is expected to resume its normal legislative functions, focusing on issues that affect the state and its citizens.

IPMAN Honors Otunba Olumide Adesanya for Outstanding Contributions

The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) South-West Zone, has conferred a prestigious recognition award on Hon. Olumide Rafiu Adesanya, the Otunba Jadiara of Irete-Ijebu kingdom. 

The award, presented at a grand ceremony, acknowledges Otunba Adesanya's remarkable contributions to IPMAN's development and progress. 

As CEO of Femtos Oil and Gas, he has consistently demonstrated his commitment to the growth and success of the association

 The Kabiyesi, HRH Oba (Dr.) Olusegun Abdul Ganiyu Awokoya-Yesufu, Kutimehin Adetutu 1, The Onirete of Irete-Ijebu, and people of Irete-Ijebu kingdom have expressed their delight at the honor, with the Kabiyesi stating, "This achievement brings immense pride and honor to our community. We are thrilled to see our son's hard work and dedication recognized at such a high level."

The people of Irete-Ijebu and the entire IPMAN SouthWest Zone community have joined in congratulating Otunba Olumide Adesanya on this outstanding achievement, which is a testament to his outstanding leadership and commitment to IPMAN's advancement.