Oba Clement Haastrup Crowned 41st Owa Obokun of Ijesaland Amidst Grand Celebration

The city of Ilesa in Osun State was a vibrant spectacle on Thursday, as it played host to a historic cultural event—the coronation of the 41st Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, Ajimoko III. The ceremony was a significant milestone in Yoruba history, drawing traditional rulers, political leaders, and distinguished guests from all corners of Nigeria.

The coronation, held under the ancient traditions of the Ijesa people, turned the city into a hub of jubilation, as large crowds of residents and well-wishers gathered to witness the installation of their new monarch. In a show of deep cultural pride and communal respect, many local business owners shut down their shops, turning the city into a festive arena adorned with colourful fabrics, traditional music, and dances.

Osun High Court Declines to Halt Owa Obokun Coronation Amid Legal Dispute

A Gathering of Nigeria’s Elite

The grandeur of the ceremony was accentuated by the presence of prominent national figures. Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, led the host delegation, while the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, attended on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The event also brought together former President Olusegun Obasanjo and former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, two towering figures in Nigeria’s democratic history, symbolizing the unity and significance of the occasion.

Senator Francis Fadahunsi, representing Osun East in the National Assembly, added legislative presence, reaffirming the importance of the event to the state’s socio-political fabric.

Traditional Royalty in Full Display

Equally notable was the gathering of some of Yorubaland’s most revered royal figures, adding deep cultural resonance to the day’s proceedings. Among them were the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi; the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Laoye Ghandi; the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi; the Owaloko of Iloko-Ijesa, Oba Akeem Ogungbangbe; and the Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams.

These royal fathers paid homage to the new monarch, blessing his reign and emphasizing the unity of the Yoruba traditional institutions. Their presence underlined the deep respect the Owa Obokun stool commands across the Yoruba cultural landscape.

A Monarch with a Rich Legacy

Oba Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, a descendant of the legendary Ajimoko lineage, ascends the throne with a reputation as a respected statesman and community leader. His deep ties to both the traditional and modern spheres of governance make him uniquely positioned to bridge cultural heritage with contemporary leadership.

Known for his dedication to education, community development, and integrity, Oba Haastrup’s installation is seen by many as a turning point for Ijesaland. His reign is expected to usher in an era of renewed cultural pride, peace, and development for the region.

A Day of Cultural Splendour and Civic Pride

The coronation ceremonies were held at the iconic Obokungbusi Civic Hall in Ilesa, followed by a grand reception at the Ilesa Grammar School premises. Traditional music, cultural displays, and royal rites dominated the day, creating an atmosphere of reverence and celebration.

Security and logistics for the high-profile event were meticulously coordinated, with support from the Osun State Government and national agencies to ensure a smooth experience for attendees. The Executive Director of Marine and Operations, Engr. Olalekan Badmus, along with former lawmakers and top Osun State officials, also graced the occasion.

A New Dawn for Ijesaland

As the 41st Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Clement Haastrup’s enthronement marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Ijesa people. His reign promises to uphold the traditions of his ancestors while embracing progressive ideals that can position Ijesaland as a beacon of cultural excellence and development in the southwest region and Nigeria at large.

The sheer scale and prominence of Thursday’s coronation are a testament not only to the esteem of the Owa Obokun title but also to the enduring spirit and unity of the Ijesa people.