Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has officially presented the staff of office and instrument of appointment to Oba Adesuyi Haastrup as the new Owa-Obokun of Ijesaland.
The ceremony, held at the entrance of Obokungbusi Town Hall in Ilesa on Sunday, attracted dignitaries and traditional rulers from across Nigeria, including the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; the Orangun of Ila, Oba Wahab Adedotun; and the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, among others.
The appointment follows the passing of the former Owa-Obokun, Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran, who reigned for 40 years and died on September 12, 2024, at the age of 86.
During the event, Governor Adeleke urged Oba Haastrup to leverage his extensive experience and global connections to drive development in Ijesaland.
He also called on Ijesa indigenes to unite in supporting the region’s growth, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to developmental initiatives across the state.
“Oba Haastrup’s ascension marks a new era for Ijesaland,” Adeleke said, expressing confidence in the monarch’s ability to lead his people toward a brighter future.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Haastrup outlined his vision for Ijesaland, emphasizing unity, youth empowerment, economic growth, and a crackdown on land grabbing.
“The time for contest is over. Let us unite to build a stronger and more prosperous future for all Ijesa people. For me, there is ‘No Victor, No Vanquished,’” the monarch said.
He noted the establishment of a vocational school to train artisans and promote local production, modeled after successful programs in China and Ghana, promoting agro-allied industries to drive economic growth in the region, Zero tolerance for land grabbing regardless of those involved, Engaging youths through productive programs to harness their potential for the benefit of Ijesaland.
Following the presentation of the staff of office, Oba Haastrup proceeded to the traditional seclusion phase, where necessary rites will be performed.
A statement from the Owa-Obokun Media Office revealed that plans for an elaborate coronation party are underway and will be announced after the seclusion period.
The event has been hailed as a significant milestone in Ijesaland’s history.
Many residents expressed optimism about the monarch’s development-oriented agenda and called for collective efforts to realize the vision.
