The Paramount Ruler of Yewaland and Chairman of the Ogun State Council of Obas, His Royal Majesty, Alayeluwa Oba (Dr.) Kehinde Gbadewole Olugbenle, on Friday, received the Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, during a courtesy visit that underscored the enduring historical and cultural relationship between the ancient kingdoms of Ilaro and Oyo.
The reception, held in Ilaro, was attended by prominent traditional rulers from Yewaland, palace chiefs and other dignitaries, reflecting the significance of the royal engagement.
Welcoming the Alaafin, Oba Olugbenle described the relationship between Ilaro and the ancient Oyo Kingdom as one rooted in shared history, mutual respect and cultural affinity. He said the people of Ilaro regard the Alaafin as a member of their extended royal family, noting that the town would always remain “a home away from home” for the revered monarch.
The Olu of Ilaro used the occasion to formally invite the Alaafin to the forthcoming Yewa Festival and the internationally acclaimed Oronna Ilaro Festival, expressing optimism that the imperial monarch would spend several days in Yewaland during the celebrations. He explained that the Alaafin’s current visit was necessarily brief and assured him of a reciprocal royal visit to Oyo ahead of the festivals.
Responding, the Alaafin of Oyo expressed appreciation for the warm reception and hospitality accorded him by Oba Olugbenle and the people of Yewaland. He offered prayers for sustained peace, unity and prosperity in Ilaro and across Yewaland.
The imperial monarch also urged traditional rulers and chiefs in Yewaland to continue supporting the leadership of Oba Olugbenle, whom he described as a visionary and exemplary traditional ruler committed to preserving Yoruba cultural heritage while promoting development within his domain.
The visit further reinforced the centuries-old bond between the royal institutions of Oyo and Ilaro and highlighted the important role of traditional rulers in promoting cultural preservation, peaceful coexistence and regional development. It also reaffirmed the shared commitment of both monarchs to strengthening inter-kingdom relations and advancing the socio-cultural and economic progress of their respective communities.
