The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owade, has installed Oba Rodman Aremu Olawale Yekeen Sakonbari I as the new Olora of Ora in Kwara State, charging the monarch to uphold Yoruba cultural heritage and prioritise the welfare of his people.
Speaking during the coronation ceremony, the Alaafin, accompanied by his Queen Consort, Ayaba Abiwunmi, described the beaded crown worn by Yoruba monarchs as a symbol of ancestral authority, moral wisdom and cultural identity.
The event also reinforced the long-standing historical relationship between the Oyo throne and communities along the northern Yoruba frontier.
According to a statement issued by the Alaafin’s Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, the royal father stressed the need for Yoruba traditional rulers to preserve the dignity and values associated with the institution of monarchy.
“Wearing of beaded crowns by Yoruba Obas should be used in such a way that will illustrate the distinguished Yoruba etiquette,” the Alaafin said.
He added that the strength and respect accorded traditional institutions must not be undermined by modern societal influences.
“The dignity of our traditions rests on the values of our culture, and we must not allow the society we live in nowadays to rob us of our cherished and valuable cultural values,” he stated.
The Alaafin further noted that the crown symbolises the intuition of royal ancestral force, moral insight and the beauty of cultural experience associated with Yoruba kingship.
He said Yoruba monarchs occupy a unique position in society as custodians of culture, history and communal values, adding that their authority commands deep respect among the people.
“The people must submit themselves, and are absolutely submissive to the authority of the Oba, who in turn is expected to rule for the general good and welfare of the community as a whole,” he said.
He maintained that no contemporary political leader possesses the same level of influence and cultural authority traditionally associated with Yoruba monarchs.
According to him, a Yoruba Oba personifies the kingdom and represents the reincarnation of the ancestors of the community, making the institution sacred and deeply revered.
The Alaafin also prayed for divine wisdom and guidance for the new monarch and urged the people of Ora to cooperate with their ruler in the interest of peace, development and progress.
In his remarks, the new Olora of Ora pledged to dedicate himself to the service of the community and to deploy his experience, integrity and network towards the growth and advancement of the town.
Oba Olawale Yekeen also expressed appreciation to the Alaafin for attending the coronation and formally installing him as the traditional ruler of the community.
