Author: Tolulope
On behalf of HRM Oba Prof Saka Adelola Matemilola, FNSE Otileta VII Olowu Oluyalo of Owu Kingdom, Abeokuta, I’m honoured to speak about the remarkable life of Chief Dr Olatunde Ayinla Abudu, OFR. Through our interactions during various events, including a personality interview on NTA Abeokuta, a documentary on his life and times at 70 in 1999, and our collaboration on promoting reading culture, I’ve gained valuable insights into his character. SixthSense Initiative a registered nonprofit outfit hugely promoting children reading culture and human capacity development held the second edition at the Noebelhouse International College Abeokuta with his approval. Notably,…
Democracy in Nigeria has been a complex and challenging journey. Since gaining independence in 1960, Nigeria has struggled to establish a stable democratic system, with periods of military rule and fragile civilian administrations. Nigeria’s history has been marred by a series of military coups and juntas, each promising a transition to democracy but instead perpetuating a cycle of debt and instability. These regimes orchestrated sham elections, lacking genuine commitment to the democratic process. The Ibrahim Babangida (IBB) regime, which lasted about eight years, was particularly notable for its failed promises and waste of resources. The June 12, 1993, presidential election,…
Song… mkoo oo is our man x2 June 12, a watershed in our polity. A reality to come to past as it hunts every political step of our nationhood. Where are they? Why are we here? Why are the beneficiaries not here? How can they erase it? Let us hope, like in 1993 that they are still coming to join us either today or tomorrow. To consign June 12 to the dustbin and stigmatise it as an ethnic agenda is the least democratic disservice that can be done to the criminal act of the annulment which General Ibrahim Babangida stained…
I represented HRM Oba Prof Saka Adelola Matemilola FNSE Otileta VII Olowu Oluyalo of Owu Kingdom Abeokuta at the Town hall meeting. Orunto Owu Kingdom Abeokuta learnt more about the proposed constitutional amendment to create 74 reserved legislative seats in the National Assembly and 3 seats in each State Assembly for women. Olowu thrown his weight behind the proposed constitutional amendment seeking to reserve legislative seats for women, stressing that the time has come for Nigeria to embrace more female participation in governance. Though Orunto of Owu Kingdom, Chief Abiodun Lasile, the monarch said the Gender Bill is timely, as…
Here are some possible ways to achieve this balance: Emphasize Respect and Understanding 1. Educate and raise awareness: Teach younger generations about the cultural significance and history behind certain traditions, promoting respect and understanding. 2. Involve older generations: Encourage elderly community members to share their experiences, wisdom, and perspectives, fostering intergenerational dialogue. Adapt and Evolve Traditions 1. Modify traditions to accommodate age needs: Update cultural practices to ensure inclusivity, such as providing accessible seating or accommodations for elderly participants. 2. Create age-friendly activities: Develop alternative activities or events that cater to different age groups, allowing everyone to participate and…
HRM, Oba Prof. Saka Adelola Matemilola, Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Abeokuta graced the 2025 Ariya Odun Celebration at the Ake Palace, Abeokuta. Kabiyesi Olowu exchanged greetings with fellow traditional rulers, including the Alake of Egbaland, before addressing the gathering. In his speech, Oba Matemilola emphasized the significance of preserving the Ileya festivities and urged all Yoruba sons and daughters to take pride in their rich cultural heritage. From vibrant drumming and energetic dance troupes to colourful cultural displays and delicious local delicacies, the festival grounds buzzed with the spirit of tradition and unity.
In a remarkable show of solidarity and leadership, the President of the Owu Youth Forum, Hon. Olawale Olajumoke, answered a significant courtesy call of the youths of Itori Township, located around Iyesi-Ota in Ogun State on Saturday, June 7th, 2025. The visit, held in the spirit of fostering unity among Owu descendants, was warmly received by a vibrant crowd of enthusiastic youths, distinguished elders, and prominent traditional leaders of the community. Leading the host delegation was the esteemed Baale of Itori Township, *Chief Adeolu Adelanwa*, accompanied by his council of chiefs. Their collective presence registered the depth of cultural pride…
The Foundation for the Preservation of Yoruba Culture and Heritage recently hosted the 2nd Annual Global Yoruba History and Heritage Celebration in Abeokuta. Following the success of the event held at the June 12 Cultural Centre on June 3, 2025, Royal Fathers and Yoruba groups from the Republic of Benin paid a courtesy visit to HRM Oba Dr Michael Aremu Adedotun Gbadebo CFR Okukenu IV, The Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, at his palace. The Yoruba people, with a population of over 50 million in Africa and a significant diaspora, place great importance on cultural heritage and traditional leadership,…
The 2nd Annual Global Yoruba History And Heritage Celebration by the Foundation for The Preservation of Yoruba Culture and Heritage was recently held in Abeokuta. Royal Fathers and Yoruba groups from Republic of Benin paid a royal courtesy visit to HRM Oba Michael Aremu Adedotun Gbadebo CFR Okukenu IV, the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland at his palace. This was after the successful event at the June 12 Cultural Centre on Tuesday 3rd June 2025.
His Royal Majesty, Oba Professor Saka Adelola Matemilola, Oluyalo Otileta VI, joined the Owu Muslim community in celebrating the 2025 Eid al-Adha, a sacred day of faith, reflection, sacrifice, and gratitude. In his message of goodwill, Kabiyesi extends heartfelt wishes to all sons and daughters of Owu, praying that the timeless values of faith, love, and sacrifice continue to strengthen our unity and uplift us as one great people. May this blessed occasion bring peace, joy, and abundant blessings to every home. Eid Mubarak from all of us at the Owu Kingdom!