The Deputy Minority Leader of the Senate and the Omo Apesin of Ikire Kingdom, Senator Lere Oyewumi, joined a distinguished assembly of traditional rulers and government officials today to witness the historic installation of Oba Tajudeen Olanrewaju (Aketula I) as the new Akire of Ikire. The ceremony, highlighted by the formal presentation of the Staff of Office and Certificate of Appointment by the Executive Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke, marks a momentous milestone as Oba Olanrewaju ascends the throne as the 18th Akire in the kingdom's history.
Addressing the gathering, Senator Oyewumi lauded Governor Adeleke’s administration for its transparent and unbiased handling of the selection process. He noted that the Governor’s commitment to justice was instrumental in maintaining order, particularly given the town's history of kingship disputes. "I must deeply appreciate Governor Ademola Adeleke for choosing a path that left no room for discord. By prioritizing a fair process, he has ensured this transition brings peace, rather than the chaos that has unfortunately claimed lives in the past," the Senator remarked.
Senator Oyewumi further extended his gratitude to the Ikire Kingmakers, commending their integrity and refusal to compromise the sanctity of the throne for financial gain. He emphasized that by conducting a merit-based selection, the kingmakers demonstrated their commitment to the town's stability. "You have gifted Ikire with peace by ensuring this was not a monetary venture; for this service to our people, you shall continue to be blessed," he added. The Senator then called upon all sons and daughters of Ikire, both at home and in the diaspora, to rally behind the new monarch, stressing that collective support for Oba Olanrewaju is essential to driving the socio-economic development of Ikireland.
In his keynote address, Governor Ademola Adeleke congratulated the people of Ikire on the peaceful transition. Reaffirming his administration’s core values, the Governor pledged to maintain high standards of transparency and inclusive governance throughout the state. The ceremony was graced by a prestigious array of monarchs, including the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, the Owa of Igbajo, the Olufon of Ifon, and the Orangun of Oke-Ila, signaling a new era of unity and cultural pride for the Ikire Kingdom.