In a colourful traditional ceremony that reaffirmed the rich cultural heritage and enduring chieftaincy institution of the Awori Kingdom, the Olota of the Ancient and Paramount Ottaland, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Prof.) Abdulkabir Adeyemi Obalanlege, on Saturday installed Chief Saheed Ekundayo Ogungbayi as the Olori Otun Ota.
The installation ceremony, held at the historic Olota Palace, Okede Square, Ota, attracted traditional rulers, high chiefs, community leaders, family members, political figures and well-wishers from within and outside Ogun State.
Chief Saheed Ekundayo Ogungbayi, who hails from the Kupoluyi Ogungbayi Ajayi Descendants House of Ago Tigbo Otun Quarters, Ota, was formally presented to the people after the completion of the traditional rites and invested with the insignia of his new office by the revered monarch amid applause from guests.
Speaking during the ceremony, Oba Obalanlege, who bears the traditional titles Lanlege Ekun II, Arole Iganmode and Olofin Apesin Olode, described the appointment as one founded on merit, integrity, loyalty and an unwavering commitment to the growth and development of Ota and the Awori Kingdom. The monarch charged the newly installed chief to regard the honour as a call to greater service and to work harmoniously with other traditional title holders in promoting peace, unity and sustainable development across the kingdom.
The Olota emphasized that the traditional institution remains a vital partner in community development, conflict resolution and the preservation of the customs, culture and values handed down by the forefathers. He urged sons and daughters of Ota, both at home and in the diaspora, to continue supporting the palace in its efforts to foster harmony and progress.
In his acceptance remarks, Chief Ogungbayi expressed profound gratitude to the Olota, the kingmakers and the people of Ota for the confidence reposed in him. He pledged unwavering loyalty to the throne and promised to discharge the responsibilities of the office with humility, fairness and dedication.
“I consider this elevation a divine privilege and a call to serve our people. I will continue to support every initiative that promotes peace, unity and the socio-economic advancement of Ota and Aworiland,” he said.
The ceremony featured traditional drumming, cultural performances, prayers and goodwill messages from dignitaries, reflecting the rich cultural identity and enduring customs of the Awori people.
The installation of Chief Saheed Ekundayo Ogungbayi from the Kupoluyi Ogungbayi Ajayi Descendants House, Ago Tigbo Otun Quarters, Ota, as Olori Otun Ota is widely regarded as another significant milestone in reinforcing the traditional administrative structure of the Olota Palace and preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Awori Kingdom.
The ceremony concluded with the royal proclamation:
“Ajegbo, Ajẹto, L’asẹ Olódùmarè.”
