A new Obajio has been selected for Ife: Prince Owoyomi, as named by Ooni.
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has announced the appointment of a new Obajio of Ife, Prince Olagoke Owoyimi. The farmer and businessman hails from the Alayo ruling house in Moore, Ile-Ifé [1][2].
The selection process was rigorous, with a five-member committee established by the Ooni-in-Council vetting three eligible princes from the Alayo and Bamidein ruling houses. Apart from Prince Owoyimi, the other contenders were Prince Olagbenga Owoyimi and Prince Kola Ogunrinola, both from the Bamidein ruling house [1].
The appointment was based on Prince Owoyimi’s integrity, dedication to the heritage values, and commitment to the service of the Ife kingdom [1]. The Ooni’s appointment letter emphasized that as the Ejio of Ife, Prince Olagoke Owoyimi is expected to uphold the dignity of his title and serve with loyalty, wisdom, and humility to promote unity, peace, and progress in Ile-Ifé.
The palace confirmed that details regarding Prince Owoyimi's installation and formal presentation will be communicated in due course, in line with palace protocols and traditional rites. The official date for the ceremony has not been disclosed [1].
This appointment is another step in the Ooni’s efforts to strengthen traditional institutions and ensure qualified leaders take up roles in the ancient Yoruba kingdom of Ife. The Ooni’s statement was issued on behalf of the palace by Otunba Moses Olafare, the Director of Media and Public Affairs, and was disclosed on Wednesday [1].
The Bamidein ruling house had two contenders for the position of Obajio, making the selection process all the more competitive. The latest development marks another significant step in the Ooni’s continued efforts to strengthen traditional institutions and ensure the prosperity of the ancient Yoruba kingdom of Ife.
[1] The Nation Nigeria [2] Vanguard Nigeria
- The Bamidein ruling house, with two contenders for the Obajio position, faced a highly competitive selection process.
- As the Ejio of Ife, the newly appointed Prince Olagoke Owoyimi, hailing from the Alayo ruling house, is anticipated to uphold his title with dignity and serve with loyalty, wisdom, and humility to promote unity, peace, and progress in Ile-Ifé.
- The latest appointment follows the Ooni's continued efforts to strengthen traditional institutions in the ancient Yoruba kingdom of Ife, working towards ensuring qualified leaders take up key roles.
- In the realm of fashion-and-beauty and home-and-garden, updates on Prince Olagoke Owoyimi's installation and formal presentation in Ile-Ifé remain awaited, in accordance with the palace protocols and traditional rites.
