Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III
By Owotoday | July 17, 2025
The Olowo of Owo and Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Traditional Rulers, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, has issued a strong warning to traditional rulers who reject cultural practices, insisting that the throne is no place for those who disdain age-old customs.
The monarch made this declaration on Wednesday in Akure at a colloquium held in honour of the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, to mark his 10th coronation anniversary.
Oba Ogunoye’s statement came in response to observations by keynote speaker, Dr. Festus Adedayo, who expressed concern that the traditional institution in Nigeria is losing its mystique and moral authority due to the actions of modernist monarchs. Adedayo argued that the erosion of cultural rites and sacred symbolism has weakened the institution's influence in national development.
“The traditional institution must redeem itself if it wants to be taken seriously,” Adedayo asserted. “Kings must uphold the myths, practices, and dignified aura passed down by their forebears — from their public comportment to their burial rites.”
In a sharp rebuttal, the Olowo said no one is compelled to become a king, and as such, anyone who chooses the path of royalty must be ready to live by its sacred expectations.
> “If you want to be an Oba, be ready to live by the traditions,” he said. “You can’t wear the crown and reject the customs. Nobody is forced to become a king. I lived in the palace for 25 years with my father before ascending the throne, and I have never found our traditions repugnant. If you can’t embrace them, don’t accept the crown.”
He lauded the Oyo State Government for upholding cultural protocols during the installation of the new Alaafin of Oyo, describing it as a commendable act of cultural preservation. Oba Ogunoye also challenged critics to mention specific monarchs who have gone astray, rather than casting blanket accusations.
Also speaking at the event, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, emphasized the enduring role of traditional rulers in governance and social stability.
> “The traditional institution is part of our inheritance,” Makinde noted. “Even the colonialists met structured monarchies that were central to governance. Strengthening these institutions is key to strategic governance.”
Among other dignitaries present were the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation and Oba of Ilu-Abo, Oba Olu Falae, who chaired the occasion; Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiye Fasoranti; Dr. Tope Fasua, who represented the Vice President; Ondo State Attorney General Dr. Kayode Ajulo; Professor Adedayo Afe; and the host celebrant, the Deji of Akure.
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