Oba Awokoya-Yesufu Hails Abiodun as Irete-Ijebu Monarch Rises to Second-Class Status

 

Onirete celebrates elevation as recognition of Irete-Ijebu’s growing traditional and community significance

The traditional institution in Irete-Ijebu has received a significant boost following the elevation of its monarch, HRH, Oba (Dr.) Abdulganiyu Olusegun Awokoya-Yesufu, Otufesojoye Adetutu I, Onirete of Irete-Ijebu, to the status of a Second-Class Oba by the Ogun State Government.

The monarch has expressed appreciation to Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, describing the elevation as a landmark development in his reign and an important recognition of the traditional institution and the people of Irete-Ijebu.

Oba Awokoya-Yesufu conveyed his appreciation during separate courtesy visits to the Ogun State Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, and the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi, at their offices in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

For the Onirete, however, the new status extends beyond personal honour. He views it as an opportunity to strengthen the relevance of the traditional institution in community development, cultural preservation and the welfare of his people.

The monarch commended Governor Abiodun's administration for its support for traditional institutions across Ogun State, noting that the elevation could further strengthen the cultural identity of Irete-Ijebu and create greater opportunities for the palace to contribute to the development of the community.

A New Chapter for Irete-Ijebu

The elevation comes at a significant moment in the monarch's reign. Oba Awokoya-Yesufu is preparing to mark five years on the throne on October 18, 2026, an anniversary that will provide an opportunity to reflect on the journey of the past five years and the progress recorded in Irete-Ijebu.

The anniversary is also expected to bring together traditional rulers, government officials, community leaders, indigenes and other stakeholders who have contributed to the development of the kingdom.

During his engagements in Abeokuta, the monarch extended an invitation to Governor Abiodun and members of the Ogun State Executive Council to join the people of Irete-Ijebu in marking the milestone.

According to the monarch, the fifth anniversary will not simply be a celebration of his reign but an occasion to recognise the collective efforts behind the community's progress and appreciate individuals and organisations that have contributed to its development.

Building on Unity and Development.

Oba Awokoya-Yesufu also used the occasion to reaffirm his commitment to peace, unity and sustainable development in Irete-Ijebu.

He called on residents and indigenes to remain united and support initiatives aimed at advancing the community, stressing that lasting development requires cooperation, collective responsibility and mutual understanding.

The monarch's message reflects a broader role increasingly expected of traditional institutions: preserving cultural identity while working with government, business, education and community stakeholders to deliver tangible development.

The courtesy visits were accompanied by prominent members of the Irete-Ijebu traditional and community leadership, including Alhaja (High Chief) Ogoji Idayat Tope, Iyalode of Irete-Ijebu; Otunba (Hon.) Olumide Adesanya, Otunba Jadiara of Irete-Ijebu; Hon. Justice 'Tayo Lamina; Alhaji (Chief) Ayodele Yayah Olayinka, Tayese of Irete-Ijebu; and Prince (Elder) Adegbesan Stephen.

For Irete-Ijebu, the elevation of its monarch therefore arrives as both recognition and responsibility—placing the palace in a stronger position to champion the community's heritage while pursuing the development priorities of its people.

**As the Onirete approaches his fifth anniversary on October 18, the occasion promises to be more than a royal milestone. It will be a moment to celebrate five years of traditional leadership—and to look ahead to the next chapter of Irete-Ijebu's growth.**