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OGBOJA ADEYEMI FAMILY CELEBRATES ALAAFIN OWOADE ON TRIPLE ROYAL MILESTONE
By Prince Benson Davies
Members of the Ogboja Adeyemi Alowolodu/Ikolaba descendants have paid glowing tributes to His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, the Alaafin of Oyo, as he marks three major milestones — his 51st birthday, 20th wedding anniversary, and first year on the ancestral throne of the Alaafin.
The celebration, held among family members and well-wishers in Yorubaland, was described as a moment of reflection on heritage, leadership and the enduring values of the Oyo Kingdom. For the Ogboja Adeyemi Alowolodu/Ikolaba lineage, it was an opportunity to honour a monarch whose reign has continued to promote unity and cultural pride.
Speaking on behalf of the family, the spokesperson and Secretary, Alhaji Prince Kola Kadewolu Adeyemi, said the gathering was more than a ceremonial event. He noted that it was a sincere appreciation of a king whose conduct both in the palace and in public has continued to inspire respect across Yorubaland.
According to him, the convergence of the three occasions presents a rare moment to acknowledge the personal and royal responsibilities of the Alaafin. He described the monarch as a leader who balances tradition with the realities of a modern society.
The family also celebrated the Alaafin’s 20 years in marriage. Prince Adeyemi said that two decades of marital commitment by a traditional ruler sends a strong message about stability and partnership. He added that the royal home has become an example for many families, showing that mutual respect and endurance remain the bedrock of strong communities.
The occasion further provided a moment to remember the Kabiyesi’s birthday. Family members, traditional chiefs and friends offered prayers for long life, good health and divine wisdom. They noted that the Alaafin’s life has been dedicated to service, humility and the preservation of Yoruba customs, and prayed that he continues to grow in strength and understanding.
Equally significant was the commemoration of one year since Oba Owoade ascended the throne of his forefathers. Though just a year in the long history of the Alaafin dynasty, the period has been marked by deliberate efforts to promote peace, support cultural institutions and encourage development within the kingdom.
The Ogboja Adeyemi Alowolodu/Ikolaba descendants said the early part of the reign has shown a clear commitment to bringing people together, while also protecting the traditions that have defined Oyo for centuries. They described the Kabiyesi as a bridge between the past and the future, one who respects the old ways while remaining open to new ideas that benefit the people.
The atmosphere of the celebration was filled with prayers, songs of praise and goodwill messages. Family members reaffirmed their loyalty to the throne and pledged to support initiatives that advance the dignity and reputation of the Alaafin institution.
In their final remarks, the Ogboja Adeyemi Alowolodu/Ikolaba descendants congratulated the Alaafin and Olori on their wedding anniversary, joined in birthday wishes, and prayed for a long, peaceful and prosperous reign. They said they look forward to many more years of the Kabiyesi’s leadership as a symbol of honour for the Oyo Empire and the entire Yoruba race.
The message was clear: leadership is measured not only by title, but by the impact one makes on people, culture and community. And in Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, the family said, they see that standard being upheld.
