The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has formally installed former FirstBank Group Managing Director and CEO, Dr Adesola Adeduntan, as the new Balogun of Oyo. The colourful ceremony held on Saturday September 5 at the Alaafin’s Palace and attracted traditional rulers, government officials and other dignitaries.
Adeduntan succeeds the late Dr Victor Olunloyo, former governor of the old Oyo State. Oba Owoade described the Balogun as one of the most senior and revered titles in the historic Oyo Empire, charging the new holder to use his experience to promote the peace, unity and development of the kingdom.
Adeduntan expressed appreciation for the honour and pledged to serve Oyo and Yorubaland with humility, integrity and commitment. President Bola Tinubu had earlier congratulated him, describing the installation as a call to greater service and urging him to support peace, development and the preservation of cultural heritage.
The ceremony, initially scheduled for July 18, was postponed in honour of victims of the Oriire abduction. Notable traditional rulers, including the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, and the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi, attended the event, which featured traditional drumming, prayers and homage. Ladoja’s presence also provided an opportunity for the two prominent traditional rulers to meet publicly, highlighting the enduring ties between Oyo and Ibadan.
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