The celebration of the 15th Coronation Anniversary of His Royal Majesty, Oba Rev. Mathew Sunday Akindele (JP), Arebigbade I, the revered Olu of Owode Yewa, is not merely a commemoration of years on the throne; it is a celebration of destiny, divine grace, uncommon leadership and impactful service to humanity.
For fifteen remarkable years, the throne of Owode Yewa has been occupied by a monarch whose reign has brought peace, dignity, spiritual influence and developmental consciousness to the ancient town and the entire Yewa axis. Kabiyesi stands today as a rare symbol of royalty blended with spirituality, authority united with humility, and kingship guided by wisdom and the fear of God.
Ascending the throne in 2010 after a divine and historic emergence, Oba Rev. Mathew Sunday Akindele has consistently demonstrated that true leadership is not about power alone, but about service, sacrifice and vision. His reign has become a shining testimony that a monarch can remain deeply committed to God while preserving the sacred values and cultural heritage of his people.
From the very beginning of his reign, Kabiyesi distinguished himself as a monarch of peace and stability. In a border community often confronted with social and economic challenges, the Olu of Owode Yewa became a unifying force, promoting harmony among traditional institutions, religious bodies, security agencies and residents. His leadership style has continually reflected maturity, courage and fatherly wisdom.
As a respected cleric and royal father, Oba Akindele has inspired countless people within and outside Ogun State. His life story remains deeply inspiring — rising from a humble background through perseverance, faith and dedication to become both a spiritual leader and a highly respected traditional ruler.
The monarch’s influence transcends the palace walls. Over the years, he has remained a passionate advocate for economic development and infrastructural growth in Owode Yewa and the entire Yewa region. He has consistently called for the revitalisation of the Yewa International Market and promoted the enormous commercial potential of the border town as a strategic economic hub linking Nigeria with neighbouring West African countries.
Kabiyesi’s reign has equally been marked by strong advocacy for peace, security and justice. His fearless interventions on matters affecting his people, especially on issues concerning the welfare and protection of residents, have earned him admiration across various sectors.
Beyond governance and advocacy, the Olu of Owode Yewa remains a spiritual general whose evangelical and humanitarian activities continue to transform lives. Through crusades, outreach programmes, prayer gatherings and revival meetings, many souls have been uplifted spiritually and morally under his leadership. His unwavering commitment to God’s work has made him a source of inspiration to many Christian leaders and traditional rulers across the country.
Indeed, fifteen years after his coronation, the reign of Arebigbade I has become a reference point in purposeful traditional leadership. His calm disposition, bold vision, fatherly counsel and developmental passion continue to command respect from political leaders, religious institutions, youth groups, traditional councils and the business community.
Today, Owode Yewa proudly celebrates not just a king, but a bridge-builder, a peacemaker, a visionary reformer and a spiritual father whose reign has brought honour to the throne of his forefathers.
As drums roll, songs of praise rise and tributes pour in from far and near, the people of Owode Yewa and well-wishers across Nigeria celebrate a monarch whose legacy continues to inspire hope for a greater future.
On this glorious milestone of 15 years on the throne, we join sons and daughters of Yewaland, friends, associates and admirers worldwide to salute the courage, resilience and impactful leadership of His Royal Majesty, Oba Rev. Mathew Sunday Akindele (JP), Arebigbade I, Olu of Owode Yewa.
May Almighty God continue to preserve Kabiyesi in divine health, abundant wisdom, peace and greater strength to reign successfully for many more fruitful years on the throne of his ancestors.
Long live the Olu of Owode Yewa.
Long live Owode Yewa Kingdom.
Long live Yewaland.
Long live Ogun State.
