A 40-year-old traditional ruler, Oba Joel CPS Oyatoye Olufayo II, was officially crowned as the new Oloro of Oro Kingdom in Irepodun Local Government Area of Kwara State on Monday.
This historic coronation marks the return of his lineage to the throne after 234 years.
The traditional rites accompanying the ceremony were overseen by the Oloro-in-Council, led by the Eesa, High Chief Otunola Taiwo.
The ancient Oro Kingdom, which comprises 11 autonomous communities—Afin, Agbeola, Ido, Ijomu, Iludun, Irebode, Okeola, Okerimi, Otun, Olorunsogo, and Sie—celebrated the installation of their new ruler with pomp and ceremony.
Born on January 27, 1984, Oba Joel Oyatoye descends from the Oyatoye Titiloye family of the Olufayo ruling house in Afin Oro.
He is a direct descendant of Oba Olufayo I, who reigned as the Oloro of Oro Kingdom between 1785 and 1788, reuniting the throne with his lineage after over two centuries.
The Kwara State Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who served as the Special Guest of Honour, called on the newly installed monarch to lead with integrity and compassion.
Represented by his Special Adviser on Political Matters, Hon. Femi Agbaje Whyte, the governor encouraged Oba Joel Oyatoye to adopt an open-door policy to foster the progress of the community.
Emphasizing the vital role of traditional rulers, AbdulRazaq stated, “The natural rulers who are leaders in their various communities have a duty to preserve the cultural heritage of the people as well as maintain peace and unity of that community. Your ascension is a call to serve and preserve the culture, heritage, and unity of Oro Kingdom,” he added, advising the monarch to prioritize the unity of the Oro people.
The governor further assured the community of his administration’s unwavering support for traditional institutions, pledging to enhance development initiatives across the state.
The Olupo of Ajase-Ipo and Chairman of the Irepodun Traditional Council, Oba Ismail Alebiosu, commended the seamless selection process that led to Oba Joel Oyatoye’s emergence.
He urged the people of Oro Kingdom to remain united and avoid divisions.
“Kabiyesi has settled on the throne with divine support. He should open his doors and study the complexities of Oro Kingdom carefully,” Oba Alebiosu advised, praying for a successful and impactful reign while calling on all sons and daughters of Oro to rally behind their monarch for the kingdom’s progress.
The Executive Secretary of the National Institute of Cultural Heritage of Nigeria, Otunba Biodun Ajiboye, highlighted the cultural significance of the coronation, emphasizing its importance in preserving Nigeria’s diverse heritage.
Founder of Thomas Adewumi University, Dr. Thomas Adewumi, praised the industrious nature of the Oro Kingdom, noting its commitment to economic development and self-reliance.
“Oro Kingdom has long been a hub of industrial development. Our people are united in prioritizing growth and equity,” he remarked.
Dr. Adewumi also commended Governor AbdulRazaq’s equitable development policies and revealed collaborative plans to establish 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 disclosed.
As Oba Joel CPS Oyatoye Olufayo II begins his reign, the call for unity and progress resonates deeply within the Oro Kingdom, promising a new era of cultural preservation and development.