Awujale Installs Kuku As 4th Ogbeni Oja

From Azeez Olorunlomeru, Abeokuta

THE Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, yesterday, installed co- founder of EKO Hospital, Olor’oogun Sunny Folorunsho Kuku as the fourth Ogbeni Oja of Ijebuland.

The endocrinologist and ProChancellor, University of Benin, succeeded his late uncle, Chief Bayo Kuku, the third Ogbeni Oja of Ijebuland who died in 2015.

The Ojude pavilion used for the installation was filled to the brim by the well wishers, relatives, friends and associates of the new Ogbeni Oja. Dignitaries at the event included Governor Dapo Abiodun, represented by his deputy, Noimot SalakoOyedele.

Others were the governor of Lagos State, Babajide SanwoOlu, represented by his deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat; former governors of Ogun State, Chief Olusegun Osoba, Sen. Ibikunle Amosun and Otunba Gbenga Daniel currently representing Ogun East at the Senate, among others.

Royal fathers at the event included the Akarigbo and Chairman Ogun State Council of Traditional Rulers, Oba Adewale Babatunde Ajayi; the Olu of Ilaro and paramount ruler of Yewaland, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle; the Osile of Oke Ona Egba, Oba Adedapo Tejuoso, among others.

Abiodun said that the sterling accomplishments of the endocrinologist in medicine and business coupled with his love and commitment to the development of Ijebuland was more than enough to qualify him for the prestigious office

While congratulating the new Ogbeni Oja on this lofty achievement, Abiodun said: “I, however, challenge you to use your good offices to foster unity, economic development and educational advancement in Ijebuland.”

The Awujale said the selection of the fourth Ogbeni Oja was purely based on merit and loyalty to the throne of Awujale from time immemorial.

The new Ogbeni Oja, while speaking with journalists, said he was highly honoured to be chosen by Awujale for the exalted office, saying he was ready to redouble his commitment towards further development of Ijebuland.