By Demola Akinyemi, Ilorin

The fresh Oloro of Oro Kingdom in Irepodun local government area of Kwara state, His Royal Majesty, Oba Joel Olaniyi Oyatoye Titiloye Olufayo II, on Monday officially ascended his forefather’s throne amidst pomps and pageantry as the community was set agog with high-class cultural activities and classy entertainment vibes.

The coronation, which took place on the field of the ancient Oro grammar school marked the return of his lineage to the throne after 234 years.

It featured traditional rites performed by the Oloro-in-Council during which cameras and photographs were shut down.

In his remarks at the event, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq urged the new monarch to lead with integrity, fairness, and compassion, while operating an open-door policy to advance the community.

Represented by his Special Adviser on Political Matters, Hon. Femi Agbaje Whyte, the governor called on Oba Joel Oyatoye to see his ascension as call to serve and preserve the culture, heritage, and unity of Oro Kingdom.

The governor also assured the community of his administration’s continued support for traditional institutions, pledging to prioritize development and progress in the region.

The Olupo of Ajase-Ipo and Chairman of Irepodun Traditional Council, Oba Ismail Yahyah Alebiosu, who led traditional rulers from across Igbomina land to the ceremony commended the state government for ensuring a seamless selection process in the emergence of the new Oloro of Oro and urged the people of Oro Kingdom to embrace unity and avoid division.

He advised the new Oloro to work closely with the Oloro-in-Council, chiefs, elders, and other traditional rulers to strengthen the kingdom’s unity and progress.

“The Kabiyesi has settled on the throne with divine support. He should open his doors and study the complexities of Oro Kingdom carefully,” Oba Alebiosu said.

The revered monarch also dared the new Oloro of Oro Kingdom Oba Titiloye to reach out to seemingly aggrieved members of the community, extending olive branch to them.

“Visit them at odd hours and even attempt to postrate for them, nobody dare accept a Yoruba Oba to postrate for him or her,so the discussion would start from there.Its not going to be easy but I can assure you that the task is achievable.Almighty God will see you through.

“You should also reach out to all natives of Oro across Nigeria and in diaspora on the need for them to come home and develop Oro,this is also achievable “the monarch stressed.

Senators Saliu Mustapha (Kwara Central) and Lola Ashiru (Kwara South) also sent delegations, alongside Hon. Raheem Tunji Olawuyi Ajulopin, Member of the House of Representatives for Ekiti/Isin/Irepodun/Oke Ero Federal Constituency.

Other notable attendees included the Executive Secretary of the National Institutes of Cultural Orientation (NICO), Otunba Biodun Ajiboye; Retired Rear Admiral Azeez Bayo Afolayan, the Asiwaju of Oro Kingdom; Hon. Bolanle Olukoju, Kwara State Commissioner for Communications; and Oloriewe of Ijomu-Oro Chief Raheem Adedoyin among others.

Highlighting the cultural significance of the coronation, Executive Secretary of National Institutes of Cumtural Heritage of NICO, Otunba Biodun Ajiboyeh noted its role in preserving Nigeria’s rich heritage.

For his part,Dr. Thomas Adewumi, founder of Thomas Adewumi University,who also graced the event praised the industrious spirit of the Oro community and revealed plans for a tertiary health institution in Kwara South, saying, “We are partnering with the administration to establish this vital facility.”

“Oro Kingdom has long been a hub of industriousness and development. Our people are united in prioritizing growth and equity,” he remarked.

Dr. Adewumi also lauded Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration for its equitable development agenda, revealing plans for a tertiary health institution in Kwara South.

“This government is people-focused and committed to justice and equity. We are partnering with the administration to establish this vital facility,” he added