The palace of the Awujale of Ijebuland came alive on Saturday, February 3, when Dr. Sonny Kuku, an accomplished entrepreneur, was officially installed as the Ogbeni Oja of Ijebuland, marking a momentous occasion that brought together distinguished dignitaries and showcased the rich cultural heritage of the Ijebu people.
The esteemed event, graced by His Excellency, Senator Otunba Engr Gbenga Daniel, FNSE, FAEng, witnessed the presence of former governors of Ogun State, Chief Olusegun Osoba and Senator Ibikunle Amosun, alongside other notable personalities, including Ogun State deputy governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele; Akarigbo and paramount ruler of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Ajayi; and Olu of Ilaro, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle.
During the ceremony, Senator Gbenga Daniel, the Otunba Obalofin of Ijebuland and a member of the Royal Court of Awujale, received public acknowledgment for his remarkable contributions, particularly for generously providing the pavilion, the venue for the installation, to the palace during his tenure as the governor of the state. His benevolence and numerous contributions to Ijebuland were lauded, earning him praise for his transformative leadership and exceptional service.
Fondly known as Ogidi Omo, Senator Daniel was recognized for his outstanding dedication and commitment to the community. His pivotal role in the success of the installation ceremony underscored the depth of his involvement in promoting the cultural heritage of Ijebuland.
The installation of Dr. Sonny Kuku holds immense cultural significance for Ijebuland, representing the most prestigious chieftaincy title in the Awujale administration. The Ogbeni Oja title, the highest non-hereditary honor an Ijebu can aspire to, is traditionally bestowed upon successful businessmen who have excelled in their respective fields.
The late Chief Adeola Odutola, a revered Ijebu icon and industrialist, was the first Ogbeni Oja, succeeded by Otunba Bayo Kuku. The position has been vacant since 2015, and Dr. Sonny Kuku’s installation now marks a renewed chapter in the lineage of distinguished individuals who have held this esteemed title.
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.
