Omobolaji Adekunle
A prominent legal practitioner and arbitrator, Prince Adebowale Owolabi Olufeko, has formally declared his intention to contest for the Stool of the Awujalẹ of Ijebuland, following the transition of the revered monarch, Oba (Dr.) Sikiru Kayode Adetona, Ogbagba II, whose reign spanned over six decades.
Olufeko, who holds a Master’s degree in Law from the University of Southampton, United Kingdom, made the declaration before members of the Jadiara Bubiade family, traditional elders, women, and youth of Ijebuland during a family gathering in Ijebu-Ode.
In his declaration speech, the United Kingdom trained lawyer described his decision as “a call to service, not ambition,” stating that he was persuaded by elders, leaders, and well meaning sons and daughters of Ijebuland both at home and in the diaspora to present himself for the sacred stool.
“This call is not born out of personal ambition, but from a sense of duty and service a deep commitment to the continued peace, unity, and prosperity of our land. After much reflection, prayer, and consultation, I have accepted this call with humility and gratitude to God,” he said.
The legal expert, who also serves as Chairman of Technology Essentials Limited pledged to uphold the legacy of the late Oba Adetona by promoting unity, peace, and development across Ijebuland.
“If, by the grace of God and the will of the people, I am found worthy of this sacred stool, I pledge to uphold the dignity of Ijebuland, empower our youth, strengthen our culture, and attract investment and innovation that will benefit our people,” he stated.
Olufeko outlined his five point agenda,which include:
1. Preserving the dignity and unity of Ijebuland in line with Oba Adetona’s legacy.
2. Promoting peace, security, and good governance.
3. Empowering youth through education, mentorship, and enterprise.
4. Repositioning the Ojude Oba Festival as a global tourism and cultural brand; and
5. Supporting the realization of Ijebu State as a model of good governance and Yoruba pride.
He praised the late Oba Adetona for his “remarkable leadership and royal accomplishments that brought honour and progress to Ijebuland”, while also commending Governor Dapo Abiodun for his developmental strides across Ogun State.
“We pray that Almighty God will continue to bless His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, with wisdom and strength to steer the affairs of our State to greater heights,” Olufeko said.
Prince Olufeko, who has served with distinction both in Nigeria and the United Kingdom, emphasized that his professional background in law, mediation, and arbitration has prepared him for a leadership style rooted in fairness, diplomacy, and vision.
“My aspiration is to serve not to rule,to preserve not to change to build upon the foundation laid by our illustrious ancestors,” he declared, amid cheers from family members and supporters.
He concluded by seeking the blessings and prayers of the Jadiara Bubiade family and all Ijebus, expressing confidence that with unity, the people would sustain the progress recorded under the late Awujalẹ.
“May the Almighty God bless our family, guide our decisions, and grant Ijebuland continued peace, prosperity, and unity,” he prayed.
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