Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on Friday elevated three high chiefs in Ibadanland to the status of Obas despite their absence from the coronation ceremony held at Mapo Hall, Ibadan.

The chiefs are the Ekeerin Balogun of Ibadanland, High Chief Akeem Adewoyin; the Ekaarun Olubadan of Ibadanland, High Chief Kola Babalola; and the Ekaarun Balogun of Ibadanland, High Chief Sharafadeen Alli.

The trio had earlier declined the state government’s invitation to attend the ceremony, stating that they would not be available.

Notwithstanding their absence, the governor, who was represented by his deputy, Adebayo Lawal, formally pronounced them as Obas during the event.

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, was also absent but was represented by the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola.

Addressing the newly elevated monarchs, Lawal said, “Distinguished newly crowned Kabiyesis, káde ò pé lórí kí bàtà ò pé l’ẹsẹ̀.”

The ceremony was attended by prominent Ibadan leaders and government officials, including the Otun Olubadan, Oba Eddy Oyewole; the Osi Olubadan, Oba Abiodun Kola-Daisi; Ekeerin Olubadan, Oba Adebayo Akande; and Chief Nureni Akanbi.

Others in attendance were the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Musibau Babatunde; the Araba of Ibadanland, Chief Ifalere Adegbola; former Minister of Trade and Industry, Chief (Mrs) Onikepo Akande; a member of the House of Representatives, Adebayo Adepoju; Commissioner for Chieftaincy Matters, Ademola Ojo; Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Wasiu Olatunbosun; and the President-General of the Central Council for Ibadan Indigenes, Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole.

The development is considered unprecedented in the history of Yorubaland, as the affected chiefs were not physically present at the event where they were elevated.

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The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) has begun mobilising prominent sons and daughters of the ancient city to support a weeklong programme in honour of the coronation of the new Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.

The former governor and senator will be crowned the 44th Olubadan next Friday, September 26, at the historic Mapo Hall.

CCII President-General, Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole, has inaugurated a high-powered organising committee to coordinate activities for the celebration. The committee is co-chaired by two billionaire businessmen, Engr. Dotun Sanusi and Chief Adegboye Adegoke.

Although the Oyo State Government had earlier inaugurated a committee chaired by Chief Adebayo Oyero to handle the coronation proper, CCII said it resolved to expand the scope of the celebration to reflect the stature of the monarch-designate.

According to the group, Oba Ladoja’s status as a successful businessman, politician, and elder statesman sets him apart from his predecessors, hence the need for a more elaborate programme.

Already, some frontline Ibadan indigenes have reportedly committed N10 million each to the celebration. The committee has also secured live broadcast rights with Arise TV, Channels Television, TVC, Solution FM, Ilaji FM and other national stations to beam the event.

The weeklong programme will commence with inter-religious prayers on Monday, September 22, at the Olubadan’s Palace, Oke-Aremo. A stage play on the progenitor of the Olubadan throne, Arusa, will hold at Apex Hall, Yidi Agodi.

On Tuesday, September 23, a cultural day will be staged at Olubadan Stadium. The first Olubadan coronation lecture will take place the following day at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, with globally acclaimed historian, Prof. Toyin Falola, as guest lecturer.

Thursday, September 25, coincides with Oba Ladoja’s 81st birthday. Islamic prayers are scheduled for 10 a.m. at the palace, while a mega praise and worship session will be held at the Civic Centre, Agodi, from 2 p.m.

The coronation proper holds on Friday, September 26, at Mapo Hall from 9 a.m. A reception by the royal family will follow at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium by 3 p.m.

On Sunday, September 28, a thanksgiving service will take place at the Church of Ascension, Bodija. This will be followed by a civic reception at the University of Ibadan’s International Conference Centre.

Other post-coronation programmes include a Jumat service at Ibadan Central Mosque, Oja’ba, on Friday, October 3, and an “Isese” traditional worshippers’ event at Ose Meji Temple, Oja’ba, on Saturday, October 4.

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Chief Ajewole was returned as the President-General of the apex Ibadan socio-cultural association, alongside other members of the executive council, who were all given the mandate to continue piloting the affairs of the association for another two-year term.

In a congratulatory message issued through his media aide, Idowu Ayodele, Oseni described the re-election of the Ajewole-led team as a reflection of the trust and confidence reposed in their leadership by the Ibadan indigenes at home and in the diaspora.

He commended the CCII leadership for its unwavering commitment to the progress, unity, and cultural advancement of Ibadanland while expressing optimism that the renewed mandate would further propel the association to greater heights.

“The re-election of Chief Ajewole and his team is not only a testament to their sterling performance over the last term but also an affirmation of their capacity to continue serving the interest of Ibadan indigenes. I extend my warmest congratulations and best wishes for a more impactful tenure,” he said.

The lawmaker further assured the CCII of his continued support for any initiative geared towards the development of Ibadanland and the preservation of its rich heritage.

The CCII is renowned for its pivotal role in mobilising Ibadan sons and daughters towards the socio-economic development of the65 ancient city and beyond.

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Ajewole gave this commendation on Wednesday during the investiture and inauguration ceremony of the Oyo State Executives of the Southern Women Empowerment Forum (SWEF) in Ibadan.

He also lauded Hon. Adedeji Stanley Olajide, representing Ibadan Northwest/Southwest Federal Constituency, for his dedication.

“The two lawmakers are representing Ibadan very well,” the CCII president stated.

The CCII President commended the efforts of SWEF in driving initiatives that positively impact the lives of women in the southern region, expressing CCII’s willingness to collaborate with the group.

According to Ajewole, the CCII, the umbrella body for socio-cultural societies of Ibadan indigenes worldwide, is actively working on programmes aimed at empowering individuals and reducing street idleness through productive engagements.

Alhaja Mutiat Adewolu Ladoja, wife of former Oyo State Governor and founder of Iderede Foundation, also addressed the gathering.

Represented by Mrs. Dolapo Dosumu, former Oyo State Director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Ladoja applauded SWEF’s initiators for championing causes traditionally associated with women’s roles.

She stressed that women are divinely gifted and urged them to harness these talents for societal good, especially in child-rearing and community development.

Ladoja called on women to prioritise moral upbringing which has nothing to do with wealth or formal education in raising children, emphasising that character-building at home leads to a stronger nation. She cautioned against the use of harmful language, encouraging women to nurture positive thinking in their children to fulfill their purpose in life.

Engr. Aderemi Oseni, represented by his Senior Legislative Aide, Alhaji Hakeem Okedina, reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for the empowerment of women across Nigeria. He highlighted women’s pivotal role in national development and called for increased female participation in decision-making processes.

“Empowering women is not just a matter of justice, but it paves the way for sustainable growth,” he said, referencing several initiatives he has championed to enhance women’s access to education, business opportunities, and leadership positions.

Oseni emphasised that empowering women is essential to reducing poverty and fostering a more equitable society. He praised Nigerian women for their resilience and achievements despite facing significant challenges.

He urged all tiers of government to implement gender-responsive policies that address obstacles to women’s financial independence and access to resources.

“When women thrive, families, communities, and the nation thrive as well. It is our collective responsibility to ensure no woman is left behind,” he added.

To further support SWEF’s mission, Oseni made an immediate donation of two million naira (N2,000,000) and pledged to partner with the group to organise an empowerment programme for the state’s chapter.

In her address, Dr. Helen Taiwo Adebakin, President of SWEF, expressed that her vision for the forum was divinely inspired. She explained that SWEF seeks to build a more equitable and inclusive society, enabling women in the Southern region to overcome challenges and fulfill their aspirations, contributing to a brighter future for all.

Adebakin emphasised that her core mission is to spread joy and live in service to humanity.

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The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) has made a significant adjustment to the schedule for the official opening of the grand Olubadan Palace, originally slated for today, Wednesday, July 10th.

In a press release issued by the Council’s Public Relations Officer, Kola Olomide, it was announced that the commissioning ceremony will now commence at 3:00 PM, instead of the previously scheduled 10:00 AM.

The ceremony, which will be graced by the presence of the state governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, is anticipated to draw a distinguished audience.

Noteworthy attendees include prominent traditional leaders, government officials from various states, and other esteemed personalities from across Yoruba land.

This adjustment in timing aims to ensure that all preparations are meticulously executed for what promises to be a momentous event in the cultural and historical landscape of Ibadan.

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JBC is a club of upwardly mobile Ibadan Indigenes committed to transforming Ibadanland into the epitome of development in Nigeria.

According to a statement on Monday, by its president, Oloye Remi Ibrahim Babalola, Jericho Businessmen Club added that “Over the years, we have contributed and supported immensely in the areas of social, economic, healthcare and educational sectors of Ibadanland. This is through the execution of numerous developmental programmes for various communities and the empowerment of active artisans and vulnerable indigenes.

“As an affiliate member of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes CCIl, we have actively supported the association in its programmes and events.

“The recent events in Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes CCII, our umbrella association, have been of grave concern to us and other well-meaning Ibadan indigenes. We acknowledge that conflict is not unexpected in every human organisation, especially within a tribe of great warriors like ours.

“However, this lingering conflict and the unbridled quest for power is becoming very troubling and embarrassing to all sons and daughters of Ibadanland, particularly associated clubs and societies.

“It is in the light of this, that we call on all parties to conduct their affairs with the utmost respect for one another and reverence for the Club’s constitution and practices. As such, all grievances should be channelled through established due process.

“We therefore call on the Trustees of the Club, as well as elders and titled chiefs in Ibadanland to rise and arrest this ugly descent into ignominy”, the statement continued.

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Nigerian Minister of Youth and sports Development, Mr. Sunday Dare, was on Sunday honoured with Merit Award by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) for his contribution to uplifting the youth, development of Oyo state and Nigeria in general.

It would be recalled that the Minister was conferred with the Hero of Democracy Award in Abuja, the nation’s capital, a few days earlier.

Speaking at the colorful event, the President of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Chief Yemi Soladoye thanked the the minister for his commitment and support to the development of Ibadan, Oyo state  and Nigeria

“We are grateful to Chief Sunday Dare for his commitment and support to the development of Ibadan, Oyo State and Nigeria at large. Since he became Minister, he has not only supported our activities, but offered us the use of facilities for the Ibadan Week without charges.

“He has displayed uncommon love and kindness towards Ibadan. It is for these and other reasons that we are honouring him today with the most outstanding Friend of Ibadanland award. For the avoidance of doubt, Ibadan is celebrating Chief Sunday Dare today because of the hands of friendship he has been extending to Ibadanland since he became the Minister of Youth and sports Development in 2019”, Soladoye said.

In his response , the Minister appreciated the group for the honour, assuring them that he would continue to work for the progress of Ibadan, Oyo state and Nigeria in general.

In his words, ” I’m humbled and greatly honoured by this award. I promise to fund an endowment for the development of Ibadan for the next ten years.

“Ibadanland with his imperial majesty present, has given me an award of the most outstanding friend of Ibadanland. I am humbled, I am appreciative of the Ibadan people and I would continue to give my own quota to the development of Ibadan and the entirety of Oyo State”, Dare assured.

Reacting to the worsening insecurity in Ibadan, he explained that he had issued called  on Governor Seyi Makinde to do what is right and prevent Oyo state from slipping into anarchy.

According to the minister, “We have experienced eight years before now and we didn’t experience this kind of anarchy, this state of insecurity.

“It is enough. The government must stand up and do what it is expected to do by the constitution and the law. The life of every citizen is important. We can ask for support from the Federal Government. The federal government would help any state that does that and I expect that the governor would do that.

“I know every citizen of this state would support the governor and I think that should happen,” he added.

Also, a former Commissioner for Agriculture, Natural Resources and Rural Development, Barrister Kunle Ishola was confered with the Most Patriotic Ibadan Indigene Award.

The event had in attendance, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu Adetunji, Oloye Sarafadeen Alli, Hon. Asimiyu Alarape, Prince Akeem Adeyemi Skimeh, among other dignitaries.

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It is an accepted fact that sporting activities are about the only aspect of life, globally, with unifying factor when all citizens of a country put aside all their differences and unite as one to support our team/individuals!

Worldwide sporting activities like football and table-tennis attract so much followers and Chief Ekun had, since a very tender age, been involved in one of the prominent grass-root sporting activities, namely Table-Tennis game, he went to the then University of Ife, now Obafemi Awolowo University, to hone his capability to be well acceptable in all global sporting convocations!

Waheed was a champion at all categories of the table-tennis championship events held locally and globally, he went ahead to take on coaching jobs in many countries abroad like Ghana, United Kingdom, United States of America amongst others!

Waheed remains the only Nigerian, nay African, whose write-up on the game of Table-Tennis was accepted to be published in the journal of the International Table-Tennis Federation who later adopted his recommendations as part of how the game was officiated!

His exploits in these sporting activities attracted and are still attracting lots of influence in all circumstances of human endeavours and these are veritable avenues he will definitely explore for the benefit of Ibadanland as much as the need arises!

During all his educational and professional exploits, he came in contact with and made lasting/mutually beneficial relationships which will still be available for the development of Ibadanland!

Waheed is iconic social person with membership of notable associations/groups within and outside the shores of Nigeria. He is a member of the first cosmopolitan club in Africa, the Ibadan Recreation Club, where he served in so many relevant capacities including being the General Secretary of the Club. He is a member of the Ibadan Solidarity Group, which is one of the foremost clubs under the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) where he also served as the General Secretary and eventually as the President after which he was included in it’s Board of Trustees. A crucial aspect of his membership of ISG is the undeniable fact that when he was it’s General Secretary, he got a lot of upward mobile sons of Ibadanland to join the Group which eventually lifted the status of the Group from one which membership was not up to twenty to a level of almost seventy as those he brought in also got others to become members thus strengthening the influence of the Group in the CCII and Ibadanland!

Waheed also is a member of  the Jericho Businessmen Club, another formidable Club within the CCII, and to demonstrate his grassroot cleavage, he belongs to Ibidapo Ibidunni Olounje Bodija, an association of market men and women through whose sponsorship he was elected as the General Secretary of CCII, a position on which he brought to bear his wealth of experience thus elevating the GS status beyond the way it used to be considered in the affairs of the CCII!

This caught the attention of the then Executive Governor of Oyo State who appointed him as his Special Adviser On Sports thus giving him the privilege of being part of the governance of the State with the attendant advantage of knowing the workings of the Civil Service at the top which he had and can still exploit for the benefit of CCII as the need arises in future!

It was during the tenure of Waheed as the Chairman, Ibadan Week Celebrations, that a lot of fresh/new ideas were introduced thus lifting the Celebrations to another level never experienced before and equally generating both moral and financial profits to the CCII!

Chief Ekun is now into real estate industry operating under the name Waheed Ekun Properties and he is involved in the totality of the industry: buying, selling and building (commercial and residential apartments) through which business he has been able to build a credible reputation!

Waheed is married to ‘Sunmbo, his childhood heart-throb, and they are blessed with three children, Yetunde, Wareez and Aishat and through Yetunde, he became a grandfather some years ago!

All his veritable exploits in all of human endeavours did not go unrecognized and therefore, he was given an Impact Award_ in recognition of his contributions towards the promotion/development of Ibadanland, particularly the youths, by The Federation of Ibadan Students Union in the year 2009. Also he, as a cultural icon, was appointed a Cultural Ambassador by The Centre For African Culture And Tradition in the year 2010. Equally in the year 2019, the University of Ife made him a role model in pursuant of his attributes as a youth leader!

A complete gentleman with considerable influence in all facets/spheres of the Nigerian polity, it is during the Ileya Eid-Kabir party he holds annually that his wide acceptability is better seen/demonstrated as the creme-de-la-creme of the society always make that occasion a must-attend event, Waheed is a very marketable individual whose brand will bring a lot of developmental milestones, from within and outside Nigeria, to Ibadanland during his tenure as the PG of CCII!

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Ibadan Cultural Festival is an annual programme organised by CCII, the apex body of all social clubs in Ibadan with a view to showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the ancient city of Ibadan to the outside world.

According to the weeklong programme which was released by the Planning Committee, this year event, will begin with Special Prayer at Central Mosque Oja’aba on Friday, April 19 and end on Saturday, April, 27 with Award ceremony.

Prominent Ibadan indigenes who have contributed to the socio-economic development of the city either by having a distinguished career or through philanthropic efforts or through establishment of businesses have been pencil down to be honoured with awards which have been categorised into two- Most Patriotic Ibadan Indigene (MPII) and Most Distinguished Ibadan Indigene (MDIi).

Those that will be honoured in the MPII category include; Engr. Dotun Sanusi, the Chief Executive Officer of Ilaji Hotels and Sports Resort, Ilaji Farms and ICAST Group of Schools; Deacon Owolabi Oladejo, the owner of Impact Business Radio and Impact Television Station; Chief Folorunso Durojaye Ige and Mr. Olajide Babatunde.

While Engr. Olasunkanmi Tegbe, the Managing Director of KPMG, a foremost auditing firm and a gubernatorial aspirant of All Progressive Congress in Oyo State during the last general election; Mr. Fatai Owoseni, a retired police officer and a former Commissioner of Police in Lagos State; Prof. Olubola Babalola, the first female professor of Quantity Surveying in Africa are some of the awardees in the MDII category.

Other activities of the weeklong programme include a special visit by some members of CCII to the Olubadan-in-council at Olubadan’s palace; Sunday services at Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Ita-Baale Olugbode while on Thursday, April 25th, CCII final female football competition will be held at the main-bowl of Ilaji Stadium, Akanran

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The Oyo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Mr. Abayomi Oke disclosed this on Tuesday in Ibadan, adding that the competition is being organized in collaboration with the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) and 3e Actuaries.

Mr. Oke make plain that 69 local golfers and 41 foreigners from 18 countries are being expected to be part of the competition that ends on Sunday, October 8, 2017.

The commissioner said that the competition will start with IMEGA Women Empowerment and Fund Ceremony tomorrow while the State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi will take off the golf Competition for professional golfers at Ibadan Golf Club on Thursday, October 5, 2017.

He stressed that IMEGA 2017 Awards Gala will hold on Saturday, October 7, 2017 and the IMEGA Amateur Open for Ameteur Golfer at the Ibadan Glof Club will hold on October 8, 2017.

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