.……Targets N1billion development projects.
Activities marking the 5th Coronation Anniversary of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, the Olowo of Owo, have commenced with a week-long series of events aimed at celebrating purposeful leadership, cultural preservation, and the progress of Owo Kingdom.
The Owo community also aims to raise N1 billion for three major development projects.
Addressing a press conference at the Olowo’s palace, Dr. Bode Ayorinde, Chairman of the Anniversary Planning Committee, announced that the funds will be used to build a 5-kilometer perimeter fence around the Olowo’s palace, construct a new mansion for the monarch, and build a modern reception hall for royal ceremonies and community events.
Ayorinde who is also the Pro-Chancellor of the Achievers University, Owo, emphasized that the fencing project is vital to secure the palace, which is Africa’s largest, as the land is being encroached upon.
He also noted that the new reception hall will accommodate growing needs for dignitaries and events, while the monarch’s new mansion will reflect the dignity of Owo Kingdom.
In addition, 5,000 trees will be planted in Owo to combat the destruction of houses during rainstorms. Every household will be given a tree to plant and maintain.
Dignitaries expected at the anniversary include the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Eniitan Ogunwusi, the Olu of Warri, Oba Ogiame Atuwatse, and other traditional rulers from within and outside the state.
Ayorinde said, “we are privileged to have as our leader and custodian of our culture, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, who ascended the throne in 2019. His Majesty is a man of impeccable character, a visionary leader, and a unifier who has committed himself to the progress and prosperity of Owo Kingdom.
“Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III is a highly educated and globally exposed monarch. His Imperial Majesty attended Owo High School, Owo and finished with flying colors. He proceeded to Ekiti State University, where he earned BA Religious Studies and a Master in Public Administration in Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko.
“He later returned to Akungba to study Law and earned Bachelor of Laws and was called to Nigerian Bar as Solicitor and Advocate of the Supreme Court of Nigeria. Kabiyesi is also a Fellow of Chartered Institute of Mediators and Conciliators. Prior to his ascension, he served with distinction in public administration and governance and rose to the position of Permanent Secretary in the Civil Service.
“Since assuming the revered position of Olowo, he has worked tirelessly to preserve our traditions while championing modernization and development. Under his reign, Owo Kingdom has witnessed significant progress in infrastructure, cultural preservation, and economic empowerment. His Majesty’s leadership embodies wisdom, humility, and a commitment to the well-being of his people.
“The one-week celebration will feature a health walk, medical outreach, tree planting, novelty football match, conferment of chieftaincy titles, cultural events, and a thanksgiving service at the CAC Cathedral in Owo.
“It is my great honor as well as my pleasure to welcome you all to this important press conference, which formally marks the commencement of the 5th Coronation Anniversary of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, the Olowo of Owo.
“This momentous occasion provides us with an opportunity to celebrate five years of purposeful leadership, cultural preservation, and remarkable progress in Owo Kingdom.
“Five years ago, His Majesty ascended the throne of his ancestors, as the 32nd Olowo of Owo, bringing with him a vision of unity, development, and the safeguarding of our time-honored traditions. Today, we gather to celebrate a reign that has upheld the dignity of Owo and set a foundation for a brighter future for all.
“As we gather today and continuously this week, it is not only to celebrate the rich heritage of Owo Kingdom but also to unite as a community to achieve a transformative goal.
“Allow me to elucidate on key aspects that are central to this conference. These include the highlights of the one week programme earmarked to celebrate God in the life of His Imperial Majesty and the people of Owo land, the illustrious history of Owo Kingdom, the remarkable profile of our revered monarch, His Imperial Majesty Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, and the significance of the fundraising event scheduled for Saturday, December 21st, 2024.
THE HISTORY OF OWO KINGDOM
Owo Kingdom is one of the most ancient and historically significant kingdoms in Yorubaland. Established over a thousand years ago, Owo is renowned for its cultural, political, and economic achievements. The kingdom served as a vital bridge between the Yoruba and Edo civilizations, with its traditions and artifacts reflecting a unique blend of influences.
Historically, Owo was a hub of trade, artistry, and governance. Its people are famed for their intricate beadworks, pottery, and wood carvings, which remain treasured across the globe. The kingdom also played a pivotal role in regional diplomacy and the spread of Yoruba customs and traditions. At the heart of this legacy is the Owo Palace, an architectural marvel and the largest traditional palace in Africa, symbolizing the grandeur and resilience of Owo culture.
We fondly recall that civilization in the South Western Nigeria started in Owo alongside Ibadan, Ile Ife. Gentlemen of the Press will recall that the Action Group led by the late sage, the political association which played prominent role in the emancipation of Nigeria as a Nation started in Owo.
The Policy paper that led to the most pronounced free education in the Western Nigeria was conscripted in Owo by our own Papa Adekunle Ajasin, who later became the first Civilian Governor of the Old Ondo State, now Ondo and Ekiti State. Owo is home to old Colleges like Imade College founded in 1946, which later join the league of AIONA Schools in Nigeria, and the St. Louis Hospital was the second Catholic hospital in Nigeria, which made Owo a medical tourist centre for people from as far as Benin, Sapele and beyond.
The Palace of Olowo of Owo is the largest in Africa with a perimeter fence of 16 kilometers. After Ibadan, Owo is the only town in Western Nigeria with Oke-Mapo for Community Assembly.
The famous Owo High School established by Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin. St John/Marys Teachers College now a Unity grammar School. We can go on and on, but permit me to inform you that Owo had electricity and pipe borne water as far back as 1959 when almost of the towns in the present Ondo State didn’t have.
The telephone number of Owo (051) was the oldest in Ondo State where all the people in Akoko and the present 12 towns in Ose local government were accustomed to use in history. Owo has produced great men and women that had played prominent roles in National development.
When Owo lost the opportunity to host the present Obafemi Awolowo University, Owo was compensated with the trade Centre along Oke Ogun patterned after the Yaba Trade College. While the Trade Centre in Owo is begging for attention, the Yaba Trade Centre had been upgraded twice, first to a Federal Polytechnic and later to a University. All glory be to God, Owo is a proud home to the Ondo State owned Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, the Federal Medical Centre and Achievers University Owo.
“Building a Befitting Reception Hall:
This will serve as a modern venue for community events, royal ceremonies, and other dignitaries. The age of the palace, the history of the Kingdom as well as growing civilization demands that the palace should have a befitting Reception Hall.
“Constructing a Mansion for His Majesty: This project aims to provide His Imperial Majesty with a residence that reflects his esteemed position and the dignity of Owo Kingdom. You will agree with me that Kabiyesi cannot abandon the Palace to go and live in a private house, however beautiful that other house may be.
“The Residence of Kabiyesi in the palace will serve the present Olowo of Owo and generations yet unborn. Owo sons and daughters must accept this onerous duty of developing our common heritage. It is not only a duty it is a task that must be done, and by the grace of God, we shall achieve it.
“Owo Kingdom has a legacy that inspires admiration and pride. The activities planned for the week are not just about raising funds but about uniting as a community to preserve and enhance our shared heritage. We extend a warm invitation to all Owo indigenes, friends, and well-wishers to be part of these celebrations. Each event has been carefully curated to reflect our rich cultural heritage and the strides made under His Majesty’s reign.
“We also urge members of the media to assist in spreading information about this anniversary, ensuring the participation of all stakeholders.
“I appeal to everyone present and those who hear this message to support this noble cause. Together, we can ensure that Owo remains a symbol of cultural grandeur and progress. Let us make history together as we contribute to these landmark projects.
“On behalf of the Planning Committee, I express our heartfelt appreciation to His Imperial Majesty for his unwavering support in organizing this grand celebration. We also thank all committee members, partners, and sponsors whose dedication has made this event possible.
“As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, let us rededicate ourselves to the unity and progress of Owo Kingdom. Together, we can continue to honor our heritage and build on the legacy of His Majesty’s reign. Thank you, and I look forward to seeing you all at all the activities lined up to mark the 5th Anniversary, and particularly at the fundraising event on December 21st. Let us unite for the love of Owo Kingdom!”
Lineup of activities planned for the one-week celebration:
Monday, 16th December 2024:
i. Anniversary Press Conference
Venue: Olowo’s Palace
Time: 12:00 pm
Tuesday, 17th December 2024:
ii. Health Walk
Venue: Starts at Olowo’s Palace
Time: 7:00 am
iii. Medical Outreach
Venue: Olowo’s Palace
To be coordinated by Dr. Chief Obanoyen.
Wednesday, 18th December 2024:
iv. Tree Planting Campaign
Venue: All Quarters and Households
Time: 10:00 am
Thursday, 19th December 2024:
v. Novelty Match
Venue: Owo Sports Stadium
Time: 4:00 pm
Friday, 20th December 2024:
vi. Conferment of Traditional Family Chieftaincy Titles
Venue: Olowo’s Palace
Time: 9:00 am
vii. Anniversary Jumat Service
Venue: Owo Central Mosque
Time: 1:00 pm
viii. Cultural Night
Venue: Olowo’s Palace
Time: 7:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Saturday, 21st December 2024.
ix. Conferment of Honorary Chieftaincy Titles
Venue: Olowo’s Palace
Time: 10:00 am
x. Anniversary Reception/Fundraising Luncheon
Venue: Best Western Mydas Hotel, Owo
Time: 2:00 pm
Sunday, 22nd December 2024:
xi. Anniversary Thanksgiving Service
Venue: CAC Cathedral, Igbokoro Nla Street, Owo
Time: 10:00 am.
