By Babawale Solomon
Eko Hot Blog reports that the events lined up to Celebrate the coronation of HRM Oba Musiliu Abiola Oliwo, Gbadewolu I, the Aladepekun of Odo-Egiri kingdom, Epe Division, Lagos State, continued on Friday.
The monarch, who received his staff of office from Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in May 2023, is celebrating his coronation with a one-week programme, which kicked off Monday, October 30, 2023.
On Friday, the coronation ceremony, which was monitored by Eko Hot Blog, witnessed various activities that highlighted Yoruba traditions, such as the installation of chiefs, a special Friday prayer, a talk with the press, and a feast featuring Ikokore and Egusi dishes.
The newly installed chiefs included eminent personalities who have helped the Odo-Egiri community.
Some of them include Iyalode Toyin Alaya, Apagun Pote Shola Omoye Saka, Otunba Mayegun Raheem Taofeek, and Bobaselu. They received prayers, traditional beads, and a special cap with leaves.
Addressing reporters, Oba Oliwo narrated the history of how their forefathers moved to Epe, and how the three brothers settled in different places – Noforija, Odomola, and Odo-Egiri. They faced problems, but their father’s advice brought peace to the kingdom.
The monarch, who looked excited, expressed gratitude that the Lagos government finally granted Odo-Egiri a king.
“I want to thank the Lagos state government for recognizing us. We’ve waited a long time for a king in this community,” he said.
“What we had before was a ‘Baale,’ but now we have a king. I also want to thank our community for organizing this coronation ceremony. They told me not to worry, and so far, it has been amazing.”
Oba Oliwo also prayed for his people for the honour they bestowed upon him.
The event witnessed the presence of important guests, including HRM Oba Ayodele Kolawole, HRM Oba Adeshina Sulaimon, Eredo LCDA Chairman, Hon. Monsuru Akinloye, and more.
The day ended with servings of delicious Ikokore and Egusi dishes, accompanied by lively music, making it a wonderful way to conclude a day filled with traditions and culture.
This coronation ceremony started on Monday with educational talks and a quiz competition, followed by an environmental sanitation exercise, prayers, visits from different groups, and the groundbreaking of the Aladepekun market.
The grand finale, which will witness the official coronation of the monarch, will take place at the Ansarudeen Primary School in Odo-Egiri on Saturday, November 4, 2023.
See more photos from the installation of chiefs below:
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