The Ooni of Ile-Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has approved the appointment and installation of Chief Saka Awojodu as the new Jaaran Adimula of Ile-Ife, reaffirming the continuity of longstanding traditional institutions in the ancient city.

In a statement issued by the Director of Media and Public Affairs at the Ooni’s Palace, Otunba Moses Olafare, the installation rites were conducted on Thursday in strict adherence to the sacred customs and traditions of Ile-Ife.

The ceremony drew palace chiefs, traditional priests and key stakeholders within the Ife Traditional Council. The Ooni, represented by the Obalufe of Ife, Oba Idowu Adediwura, and the Lowa Adimula of Ife, Oba Adekola Adeyeye, led the rites held at Oke-Emese within the palace premises.

The rituals were performed in line with centuries-old customs guiding the appointment of high-ranking chiefs in Ile-Ife. Following the formal installation, the new Jaaran Adimula embarked on a symbolic procession to major compounds and sacred sites across the city, accompanied by traditional priests and palace functionaries, as part of the spiritual rites required to assume office.

Addressing the gathering, the Obalufe of Ife urged Chief Awojodu to discharge his duties with integrity, humility and loyalty to the throne of Oduduwa, stressing the need to preserve the sanctity of the institution and uphold the customs that define the identity of the Ife people.

Similarly, the Lowa Adimula charged the new chief to regard his elevation as a call to greater service and to work collaboratively with other kingmakers and palace chiefs to strengthen unity and stability within the traditional council.

In his acceptance remarks, Chief Awojodu expressed gratitude to the Ooni for the confidence reposed in him and pledged loyalty to the throne. He promised to uphold the traditions and responsibilities attached to the title, while supporting initiatives aimed at sustaining peace, development and unity in Ile-Ife.

Before his elevation, Chief Awojodu held the title of Yegbata of Ife and served as head of the Emeses at the Ooni’s Palace.

The Jaaran Adimula is a senior member of the Ife kingmakers, playing a central role in succession processes and advisory functions within the palace hierarchy. By traditional ranking, the Jaaran is next to the Lowa Adimula. (The Nation)