By Otitoju Femi
The Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Prof. Joshua Ogunwole has called for a stronger collaboration between the university and Ayegbaju-Ekiti following the installation of a new traditional ruler, stressing that peaceful coexistence between the institution and its host community remains essential for sustainable development and academic excellence.
Prof. Ogunwole made the call during the presentation of the Staff of Office and Instrument of Appointment to the new Owa of Ayegbaju-Ekiti in Oye Local Government Area, Oba Adewole Oluwatosin Adewale, by Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji.
Represented by the Director of the Institute of Part-Time Studies, Prof. Tijani Wakili, the Vice-Chancellor described the enthronement as a landmark event in the history of Ayegbaju-Ekiti. He said the occasion represented not only the installation of a monarch but also the preservation of the community’s rich cultural heritage and values.
He noted that Ayegbaju-Ekiti hosts over 7,000 FUOYE students and emphasised the importance of sustaining cordial relations between the university and the host community to guarantee peace, security and uninterrupted academic activities.
Prof. Ogunwole also described Ayegbaju-Ekiti as a growing centre of culture, scholarship and intellectual excellence, urging the new monarch to regard his ascension as a call to selfless service and visionary leadership.
“This is not merely the installation of a king; it is the reaffirmation of the values of unity, peace and service that have sustained this community over the years. Ayegbaju-Ekiti occupies a strategic place in the growth of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti, with over 7,000 of our students residing here,” the Vice-Chancellor said.
“I therefore urge Your Royal Majesty to continue to promote peaceful coexistence, strengthen the existing relationship between the university and the community, and provide purposeful leadership that will foster development, unity and progress for all,” he added.
Earlier, Governor Oyebanji reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to a transparent and non-partisan approach to traditional institutions, declaring that no traditional ruler would ever be imposed on any community in the state.
Represented by the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs.) Monisade Afuye, the governor described the emergence of the 32-year-old monarch as a reflection of due process, respect for tradition and the collective will of the people.
The governor also pledged closer collaboration with traditional rulers to tackle banditry, kidnapping and other security challenges confronting parts of the state.
“The throne of the Owa of Ayegbaju-Ekiti today receives a ruler whose emergence followed the clear voice of tradition and the calm acceptance of the people. The clarity of the divination exercise and the absence of contention affirm that this process was guided by order and collective conviction,” the governor said.
“Let it be clearly stated that in this selection, there are no winners and no losers. What we see here is unity, acceptance and trust in a process that respected both culture and law,” he explained.
“This administration’s approach to chieftaincy matters has remained consistent: non-interference, respect for declarations and partnership with communities,” he maintained.
Offering prayers for the new monarch, Gov. Oyebanji said, “Kabiyesi, may wisdom and favour attend your steps as you occupy the throne of your forefathers. May your reign bring peace, progress and honour to Ayegbaju-Ekiti and Ekiti State as a whole,” he prayed.
The Commissioner for Chieftaincy and Home Affairs, Hon. Ojo Atibioke, explained that the stool became vacant following the death of Oba Solomon Adeloye on February 15, 2024.
He said the succession process, which included Ifa consultation and other traditional rites, culminated in the emergence of Oba Adewole in line with the customs and traditions of the community.
The commissioner commended the governor for preserving the integrity of traditional institutions by allowing due process to determine the emergence of monarchs across the state and appealed to the people of Ayegbaju-Ekiti to support the new royal father.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers and the Ogoga of Ikere-Ekiti, Oba Adejimi Adu Alagbado, praised the governor for ensuring that chieftaincy matters in the state remained largely free of disputes.
“Our traditions and customs should not be destroyed in our time. Respect your traditional ruler, value him and support him. I thank God that I heard you are united. Continue in that unity now that you have a king,” the traditional ruler advised.
The Chairman of Oye Local Government, Princess Clara Bamisile, commended the peaceful conduct of the selection and installation process, saying unity remained the bedrock of sustainable development.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Adewole expressed appreciation to Governor Oyebanji, the kingmakers and the people of Ayegbaju-Ekiti for conducting what he described as a peaceful, credible and transparent selection process devoid of imposition and rancour.
He pledged to lead with humility, fairness and inclusiveness while working to unite the kingdom, attract socio-economic development and strengthen collaboration with all stakeholders.
The monarch also appealed to the state government for more infrastructure projects and greater political representation for the community.
“I shall serve with humility and give everyone a sense of belonging. I cannot do it alone. I urge all sons and daughters of Ayegbaju-Ekiti to join hands with me as we take our town to greater heights. Together, we will build a more peaceful and prosperous community,” Oba Adewole pledged.
