By Babawale Solomon
Eko Hot Blog reports that HRM Oba Maruffdeen Adelani Adeniyi, the Adegbajo of Odogbawojo kingdom, has marked his one-year coronation anniversary with the installation of chiefs, accompanied by a rich display of music and culture.
The one-year coronation anniversary commenced on Thursday, featuring diverse activities like interfaith prayers, medical outreach, indoor games, quiz competition, and dancing competition. Friday marked the ceremonial installation of chiefs.
However, the days-long celebration of the one-year coronation anniversary reached its pinnacle on Saturday, December 2, 2023, with a grand gathering marked by cultural displays, music, and the installation of deserving chiefs.
The ceremony brought together a constellation of dignitaries and royals, reflecting the unity and pride of Odogbawojo kingdom.
Royalties and dignitaries graced the occasion, including Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by his wife, Joke Sanwo-Olu, HRM Oba Ogunlaja Babatunde Olaogun, Oba Olufolarin Olukayode Ogunsanwo, Oba Adeshina Sulaimon Adebowale, Oba Musiliu Abiola Oliwo, Mama Doja Otedola, Hon Wale Anomo, Hon Ismail Monsuru Akinloye, the Aremo of Epe Kingdom, Otunba TJ Abass, among others.
The ceremony opened with prayers and the national anthem, and welcome address, leading to the installation of distinguished community contributors, such as Otunba Soliu Adeniyi and his wife, recognized as the Asalo of Odogbawojo kingdom.
Newly installed chiefs, accompanied by friends and family, donned chief regalia following chieftaincy rites.
HRM Oba Adeniyi, speaking with the journalists, gave a brief history of the kingdom of Odogbawojo.
“Odogbawojo is one of the community of omoolowu, we came from Owu during the period of war in ancient times. The children of owu dispersed. Adegbajo was the son of Olowu in Ijebu. He brought all the people together reason he was called Adegbajo,” he said.
“When it was time for him to get married, his wife was barren and after consulting the oracle. He was told to go and settle in another land.
“He was told not to be under his father or any other king as he was meant to be a king and a leader before his wife could conceive. The was the reason he left Owu and came to the river of Odogbawojo where he settled. The river was first called Odo-Adegbajo before it changed to Odogbawojo.”
Oba Maruffdeen Adelani Adeniyi, the Adegbajo of Odogbawojo kingdom
He also stated his achievements since he was coronated as the Adegbajo of Odogbawojo kingdom, including how he’s been able to surmount many challenges.
The monarch reiterated his call for more constitutional authority for traditional rulers, urging the Lagos state government to take the lead.
“I am determined to preserve our agricultural heritage in Odogbawojo, even as farmlands diminish due to development. My focus is on creating agricultural reserves to make our community a food-producing kingdom. Achieving peace and curbing cultism are vital accomplishments, along with restoring lost cultural practices,” Oba Adeniyi said.
“Collaborating with politicians, I’ve initiated efforts for better infrastructure—roads and electricity. The battle against land grabbers is ongoing. My ultimate plea is for the Lagos State Government to empower traditional rulers with constitutional authority, recognizing our proximity to the people in community governance.”
The celebration reached a crescendo with an electrifying performance by legendary Fuji musician Alhaji Saheed Osupa, spreading joy and festive cheer among the attendees.
Dignitaries and important personalities shared remarks and goodwill messages, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere of Odogbawojo Kingdom’s grand anniversary celebration.
This anniversary stands as a testament to Oba Adeniyi’s impactful leadership and the enduring spirit of Odogbawojo.
See more photos from the coronation ceremony below:
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