Olobu 50th Coronation: Committee Unveils Celebration Plans

The Olobu 50th Anniversary Committee has unveiled plans to celebrate the 50th Coronation Anniversary of the Olobu of Ilobu, Oba Ashiru Olatoye Olaniyan on the throne of his forefathers.

The chairman of the committee, Alhaji Abdulwahab Falowo, unveiled plans at a press conference held on Monday at the Palace of the Olobu of Ilobu.

Falowo said the celebration, which is slated for two weeks, will encompass various events, including cultural exhibitions, sports competitions, educational initiatives, and the conferment of chieftaincy titles.

He further noted that the grand finale of the celebration will hold on May 25th, 2024, at St. Paul’s Grammar School, Ilobu.

Falowo highlighted the growth, development, and achievements of Ilobu town under the monarch’s guidance, including advancements in education, political representation, and economic prosperity.

He also mentioned that as part of the festivities, distinguished Nigerians such as the Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke, Yeye Dupe Adeleke, and business mogul Azeez Olalekan Kolade (AZKOL), among others, will be honored with chieftaincy titles.

According to the statement “This is a momentous occasion marking a half-century long of dedicated service, patriotic leadership and selfless works towards the development of our community.

“Over the past five decades, His Royal Majesty has been a shining example of selflessness, compassion, and devotion to the well-being of our community. His unwavering commitment to the progress and development of Ilobu has been inspiring, and his guidance has been instrumental in shaping our town into the thriving hub it is today.

” Let me inform the pressmen here that Oba Olaniyan was enthroned in 1974. To mark this milestone, the committee under my leadership has put together a two-week long events that cover culture, sports, education, conferment of chieftaincy titles and many more. The grand finale of these activities will take place on May 25th, 2024 at the Playing Ground of St. Paul’s Grammar School, Ilobu.

“As we reflect on the past 50 years, we remember the countless achievements, breakthroughs, and triumphs that have defined Oba Olaniyan‘s reign. His Majesty’s foresight and wisdom have navigated us through times of challenges and changes, always prioritizing the betterment of our people.

“Under his reign, an Ilobu Indigene has risen to the position of Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, the number six person in the country. The rise of Ilobu indigenes in political space started with Late Mr Ayo Ojewumi, a brilliant member of the state cabinet in the Old Oyo State.

“We have in the recent past, produced Secretary to the Osun State Government, among other great politicians that have occupied exalted positions in Osun State and Nigeria. In Civil Service, Ilobu has recently produced Clerk to the National Assembly, while the journey to the top echelon could be traced to the era of Alh. Jamiu Ishola Adepoju in the Civil Service of Oyo and Osun States. My humble self also rose the position of Deputy Registrar at the West African Examinations Council (WAEC).

“Currently, we have Accountant-General and Auditor-General for Local Governments in Osun State, several Permanent Secretaries, renowned business moguls, among others, who are indigenes of Ilobu.

“In the years under review, Late Asiwaju of Ilobu land, Alhaji Hassan Olasupo Arogundade reached the peak of his career by becoming the Managing Director of Trans International Bank. In military, Ilobu currently has a son serving as the Chief of Army Staff of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“In terms of educational development, Ilobu has moved from a community with two secondary schools to seven, while we have lots of private schools in our community. The community is also housing a tertiary institution – Westland Polytechnic. No family house in Ilobu without a graduate, while several professors have also been produced in Ilobu.

*This anniversary is not only a celebration of His Majesty’s remarkable tenure but also a testament to the rich cultural heritage and traditions that make Ilobu unique. We honor the legacy of our ancestors and the resilience of our community, which has flourished under the leadership of His Royal Majesty.

“As part of the Golden Jubilee celebration, the Olobu of Ilobu will be conferring chieftaincy titles on some distinguished Nigerians, including the Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke, his sister, Yeyeluwa Modupeola Adeleke-Sanni, Ilobu-born business mogul, Azeez Olalekan Kolade (AZKOL), Senator Olubiyi Ajagunnla, among others.