President of Ghana, John Mahama, business mogul Aliko Dangote and several prominent traditional rulers on Monday arrived in Ile-Ife, Osun State, for the installation of Mahama as the Aare Atayeto Oodua.
Among the dignitaries present were the Emir of Kano, Ado Bayero; the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Clement Haastrup; the Olofa of Offa, Oba Mufutau Oloyede Esuwoye; as well as other royal fathers and industry leaders.
Also, in attendance was former President of Botswana, Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi, alongside monarchs from Ghana and other invited guests.
The installation ceremony took place at the palace square in Ile-Ife amid fanfare, with heavy security deployed at the venue due to the presence of many high-profile personalities.
Mahama arrived at the ceremony around 1:30pm in a royal automobile-powered chariot.
Speaking at the event, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, described Mahama as a reformer, noting his leadership qualities and contributions to governance in Africa.
The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has congratulated Oba Adesuyi Haastrup on his ascension as the new Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, commending his distinguished leadership and unwavering commitment to the development of Ijesaland.
In a statement signed by his director of media and publicity, Bode Durojaiye, the Alaafin praised Oba Haastrup’s remarkable journey from the business and real estate sectors to serving as Deputy Governor of Osun State and now ascending to the royal throne, describing it as a testament to his leadership qualities and service to the people.
Represented at the coronation ceremony by two members of the Oyo Traditional Council (Oyo Mesi), High Chiefs Lamidi Oyewale and Asimiyu Atanda, alongside Protocol Officer Festus, Oba Owoade applauded the new monarch’s role in promoting peace and strengthening the traditional institution through his wisdom, integrity, and discipline.
Alaafin further noted that Oba Haastrup’s character and dedication to preserving and uplifting traditional values make him a highly respected figure in the Yoruba traditional hierarchy.
“Kabiyesi, it feels like yesterday when the lot fell on you to lead a people bound by the umbilical cord of shared history, culture, and tradition. Undoubtedly, you have displayed rare leadership acumen in fostering peaceful coexistence among the people of Ijesaland.
“You are selfless and detribalised, as you have been sustaining the goodwill and pedigree, given your extraordinary leadership style and passion for the welfare of your people.
“You are a strong advocate of peace and unity, coupled with the unique way of relating with people and contributing to their upliftment, not minding their cultural, religious, tribal and economic differences”, Oba Owoade stressed.
The Alaafin prayed for a prosperous reign for Oba Haastrup, asking God to rain blessings on the kingdom of Ijesaland and the entire Osun State.
…traders, residents close business to celebrate new king
President Bola Tinubu on Friday approved the rehabilitation of Ilesa/Ife/Ibadan dual carriage expressways for ease of transportation.
Speaking at the coronation of 41st Owa Obokun of Ijesa land, Oba Adesuyi Clement Haastrup, Ajimoko III, Tinubu noted that his administration is committed to supporting aspirations of communities, including Ijesaland.
He said, “In line with ongoing federal initiatives in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and agriculture, we are working to uplift lives and expand opportunities across the nation. We recognize the resourcefulness of this land and will continue to partner with traditional institutions to ensure that development is inclusive and enduring.”
The president, who was represented by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, congratulated Oba Haastrup and expressed confidence that under his reign, the cultural splendour of Ijesaland will not only be preserved but elevated to new heights.
As part of the Renewed Hope Agenda, Oyetola reaffirmed President Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to grassroots development, announcing that the President has ordered the release of an intervention fund for the rehabilitation of the Ilesa-Ife-Ibadan expressway-which is critical to the economic vitality of Osun and neighbouring states.
Also, Governor Ademola Adeleke in his address described the new Owa as a gentleman with loyalty and patriotism as his trademarks.
He recalled, “As the Deputy Governor to my late brother, the first executive governor of Osun State, late Senator Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke, our new Owa Adimula, demonstrated absolute loyalty and supportive backing. As a businessman, he climbed to the top of the ladder in his sector, making him one of the most successful business executives in Nigeria.”
He reaffirmed his commitment towards the overall development of Ijesaland as he disclosed that University of Ilesa is now offering over 50 courses which are accredited.
“I am glad to announce that the General Hospital, Ilesa has been approved as the Teaching Hospital for the University of Ilesa. This will boost Ilesa as a centre of medical excellence.
“We are focussed on the upgrading of Ilesa to a modern city. Hence, we are almost completing the over 12 kilometers Ereja Square-Brewery Junction dual carriageway. This landmark project for the first time is opening up Ilesa for business and pleasure.”
Oba Haastrup appreciated all the dignitaries at the programme and all those that attended, saying “You all sacrifice for me to be here today, I am so glad and elated to witness today.”
The dignitaries at the coronation are former president Olusegun Obasanjo, former Vice-President, Atiku Abubakar, ex-VP, Namadi Sambo, Ex-Osun governor, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Osun East Senator, Senator Francis Fadahunsi among others.
Also, monarchs including, Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Laoye Ghandi, Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, Owaloko of Iloko-Ijesa, Oba Akeem Ogungbangbe, Aare Onakakanfo, Gani Adams among others were also at the venue.
Others are the Executive Director, Marine and Operations, Engr. Olalekan Badmus, former Speaker of Osun State House of Assembly and other cabinet members of Osun state government were present at the coronation.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended heartfelt congratulations to Oba Clement Adesuyi Haastrup (Ajimoko III) on his official coronation as the Owa Obokun Adimula and Paramount Ruler of Ijeshaland.
Oba Haastrup was coronated on Friday in the historic city of Ilesa, Osun State.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the President described Oba Haastrup’s life journey, from politician to businessman and now royal father, as “a remarkable trajectory that reflects uncommon leadership, character, and an abiding commitment to traditional institutions.”
Oba Haastrup, a well-known figure in both political and business circles, once served as Deputy Governor of Osun State before transitioning into a successful career in real estate and private enterprise.
His enthronement marks the beginning of a new chapter in the leadership of Ijeshaland, a prominent Yoruba kingdom with deep cultural roots and historical significance.
“Oba Haastrup’s pedigree and accomplishments in public service and business have rekindled my confidence that his reign will usher in renewed progress and harmony for the people of Ijeshaland,” President Tinubu said in the congratulatory message.
The president urged the newly crowned monarch to uphold the cherished values of Yoruba tradition and to continue fostering peace, unity, and development, not only within Ijeshaland, but also across Osun State and Nigeria at large.
“As he ascends the throne of his forebears, I pray for divine guidance and wisdom for Oba Haastrup. May the legacy of past rulers of Ijeshaland continue to shine through his reign”, Tinubu stated.
President Bola Tinubu, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar and other notable guests will attend today’s coronation of the new Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, Ajimoko II.
The Chairman of the Coronation Media Committee, Shola Oshunkeye, confirmed the arrival of Obasanjo.
He added that President Bola Tinubu is billed to attend because invite was sent to the presidency over the event.
According to him: “Yesterday night we have received the former president of Nigeria in Ilesa, Olusegun Obasanjo. Atiku and his wife will also attend but we are yet to receive them.
“Also, President Bola Tinubu will be attending the coronation if anything does not change but if it does, his Vice President, Kashim Shettima will represent him.
“Today, we are ready to receive high-profile Nigerians within and outside Nigeria for this coronation and security has been put in place.”
Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, Ajimoko III, has vowed that during his reign his people would resist invaders in gold-rich areas in his kingdom.
Oba Haastrup lamented the activities of illegal mining which expose communities to pollution.
Speaking at the unveiling of a video documentary on the state of mining in Ijesaland to discuss the theme ‘Value-creating best mining practice and world-class environmental stewardship’, the monarch noted that Ijesa people are not cowards but only give peace a chance.
He explained: “The issue of gold mining has been an area of interest to me for the past 10 years. The cogent thing that I see that some speakers have enumerated, gold mining is a heavy investment and we need a coalition of investors first, it must be local before you can get International investors.
“There are a lot of studies that have to be supported by some international analysts from Canada, South Africa and Australia; this is very expensive but we must first start with a local consultant and let them guide you truly. Ijesa has a lot of potential in gold to tap on.
“Precisely, Ijesa is 24karat, it is true that a lot of illegal miners have messed up many areas. I am also aware that we have security issues where illegal miners threaten our communities, I must say that Ijesa people are not cowards, we are just allowing peace but let me tell you that during my reign we would resist invaders in our gold-rich areas.”
He called for a friendly atmosphere to harness potential in the gold of Ijesaland, adding: “It requires a lot of investment, it is not millions but billions and that is why it needs collaborative efforts by our well-to-do business people scattered all over the country. So, I plead with all and sundry to get international recognition and once we cross that line, the sky’s the limit.’’
The Owa Obokun of Ijesa, Oba Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, Ajimoko III, has revealed that he never aspired to become a traditional ruler despite his long-standing contributions to the development of Ijesaland.
Speaking at a dinner event held in Ilesa over the weekend to kick off activities ahead of his coronation scheduled for May 23, 2025, Oba Haastrup said his service to the people had always been driven by a genuine desire to uplift lives, not by political or royal ambition.
“All these times I came home to support my people, I made it clear I wasn’t doing it to become governor or Kabiyesi. I was simply doing my part to bring happiness to others and contribute to humanity,” Oba Haastrup said, according to a statement released on Sunday by Shola Oshunkeye, Chairman of the Media Committee for the coronation.
“Becoming a king never crossed my mind. But here we are today. I give thanks to God Almighty and the good people of Ijesaland for this honour. I believe Eledumare will guide me to succeed.”
The monarch called on all sons and daughters of Ijesaland, both at home and abroad, to support him in unlocking the vast potential of the kingdom for its holistic development.
Chairman of the Coronation Planning Committee, Prof. Wale Omole, a former Vice Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University, praised committee members for their dedication to ensuring the success of the coronation.
Also speaking at the dinner, the Ajirowa of Ijesaland and Vice Chairman of the committee, Alhaji Lateef Bakare, recounted the rigorous and transparent process that led to Oba Haastrup’s selection, noting that the monarch observed all traditional rites without exception.
The coronation of the 41st Owa Obokun of Ijesaland Oba Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, Ajimoko III will hold on May 23.
The palace, in a statement by Chief Shola Oshunkeye, chairman of the coronation sub-committee on media, laid out the 10-day programme which begins on May 16 and ends on May 25.
The activities take off with a Jumat service at the Ilesa Central Mosque on May 16 and ends on May 25 with a service at the Methodist Church, Otapete.
Cultural celebration holds on May 17 at the newly refurbished Obokungbusi Hall, culture and traditional rights take the centre stage with a grand Isese night holding at the palace courtyard.
On May 19, there will be royal visit to Ijesa zones, while on May 20, the grand finale of the coronation sporting activities will begin with the Owa Ajimoko III Ijesa Marathon.
The same day, the final of the coronation football competition, medal presentation and awards ceremony will hold at the Ilesa Grammar School Sports arena.
On May 21, it will be the turn of the various orphanages in and around Ilesa to have their fair share of the celebrations.
Sports take the centre stage again, on May 22, with the Ajimoko III Coronation Golf Kitty. The train moves to the Royal Park International Hotel & Resort, Iloko-Ijesa, where a symposium and Ajimoko III Foundation’s scholarship and empowerment scheme will hold.
On May 23, the grand coronation train finally reaches its destination-the Owa’s Palace as His Imperial Majesty, Owa Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, Ajimoko III, is formally crowned as the Owa Obokun Adimula and Paramount Ruler of Ijesaland with all the pomp and circumstance that Ijesas could muster.
Ofokutu Royal Family has denied the withdrawal of a suit concerning the Owa Obokun stool in Ijesaland.
In a statement issued on Friday by the chairman of the family, Omooba Banji Obembe said: “We categorically deny the claims made by Asiwaju Yinka Fasuyi that some members of the Ofokutu Royal Family have withdrawn their case concerning the Owa Obokun throne from court. This claim is incorrect and misleading.”
“The decision to seek justice through the court was a collective one, and no individual member has the authority to unilaterally withdraw the case. Any decision regarding the court case can only be made collectively by the family.”
“We urge the public to disregard any information suggesting otherwise and reaffirm that the case remains active in court. We are confident that the court will rule in our favor, affirming our rightful claim to the throne.”
Obembe added: “We want to clarify that our legal action is not targeted at the Agba Ijesa, but is driven by a commitment to fairness and the prevention of marginalization within the royal lineage.”
“We call on the Ijesa community, stakeholders, and the public to remain patient and trust in the judicial process to deliver a fair resolution to the matter.”
Prince Lawrence Isola Haastrup, younger brother of the new Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, has condemned the process that produced the new monarch.
Lawrence, who also contested for the stool, reacting to the development, said he was hastily crowned by the government, which was a taboo that opposed the tradition of Ijesa people and the throne.
He said: “Some people have selected the council king, which is not Owa Obokun. Those of us that know the law, we are aware that the case is before the court.
“Those who are behind the installation have violated the law. The court is expecting us on January 16 and we are sure the judge will not be happy with all they have done. What they did is contempt of court.
“They said the kingmakers that have existed before the death of Oba Adekunle Aromolaran are not relevant. The same kingmakers they threaten to remove if they fail to be present at the presentation of certificate. What you are doing does not have the support of Ijesa people.’’
The Nation recalls that Governor Ademola Adeleke presented staff of office to the new Owa Obokun on Sunday and later, traditional rites began.
