By Our Reporter
The ancient city of Ile-Ife came alive on Saturday as eminent personalities from across the country gathered for the installation of Chief Mrs. Olufunsho Amosun as the Yeye Moremi Oodua.
The installation was performed by the Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, at Afenworo Square, opposite the Ooni’s Palace, in a ceremony that also marked the 60th birthday of the philanthropist and founder of the Uplift Development Foundation.
Among the dignitaries at the event was former President Olusegun Obasanjo, represented by his wife, Bola Obasanjo, alongside top political figures, traditional rulers and business leaders.
Speaking at the ceremony, Obasanjo described the Yeye Moremi title as one of the most revered honours in Yorubaland, symbolising courage, sacrifice, service to humanity and commitment to cultural preservation. He commended the Ooni for promoting unity and preserving the rich heritage of the Yoruba race.
In her acceptance speech, the newly installed Yeye Moremi Oodua, Mrs. Olufunsho Amosun, expressed gratitude to God and the Ooni for the honour, describing it as a call to greater service and responsibility.
She pledged to uphold the virtues of the legendary Moremi Ajasoro, noting that the title represents dedication to humanity, humility and integrity.
“To whom much is given, much is expected. I will not take this honour for granted. I understand that this is a call to service,” she said.
Also speaking, Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, stressed the need for unity among Yoruba leaders irrespective of political affiliations, noting that the gathering reflected a collective commitment to the progress of the region.
“This is Yorubaland, and what we are witnessing today is unity in the interest of our people,” he said.
In his remarks, the Ooni congratulated Mrs. Amosun, describing her as a compassionate and selfless individual whose lifestyle reflects the virtues of Moremi Ajasoro. He urged her to continue promoting cultural values and contributing to the unity and development of the Yoruba nation.
The monarch also lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting traditional institutions and cultural heritage.
Dignitaries at the event included former Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun; former Osun State Governor, Olagunsoye Oyinlola; former Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Raji Fashola; former Minister of State for Defence, Musiliu Obanikoro; former Ogun State Governor, Gbenga Daniel; former Deputy Governor of Osun State, Iyiola Omisore; and Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa.
Also in attendance were traditional rulers, including the Alake of Egbaland, Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, alongside other monarchs from across Yorubaland.
The colourful ceremony featured cultural displays and drew widespread participation from political leaders, royal fathers, and members of the public, underscoring the enduring significance of tradition and unity in Yorubaland.
