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Egba People Celebrate As Oba Adedotun Gbadebo Marks His 80th Birthday
Egba People Celebrate As Oba Adedotun Gbadebo Marks His 80th Birthday....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
On September 14, 2023, the Egba community, encompassing the entire Ogun Central Senatorial District, comprising six local government areas (Abeokuta South, Abeokuta North, Ifo, Odeda, Ewekoro, and Obafemi Owode), along with Egba brethren, sisters, and well-wishers across Nigeria and the diaspora, are coming together in festive spirit.
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This grand celebration is in honor of a man who embodies the unity, sophistication, education, industry, brilliance, uniqueness, pioneering spirit, and leadership of their federation. It’s a tribute to the numerous achievements of this distinguished individual on both national and global scales.
Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, popularly known as Okukenu IV, is celebrating his 80th birthday today, and the Egbas take immense pride and satisfaction in their revered monarch.
The Egbas, known for their strong work ethic, dedication to education, extensive travels, remarkable achievements, and vibrant celebrations, are set to display their penchant for festivities. The celebration will feature lively drumming, resounding gongs, melodious flutes, captivating musical performances, and exquisite culinary delights. Attendees will also don some of the most fashionable attire to pay tribute to their beloved monarch.
One of Oba Gbadebo’s most significant accomplishments during his reign, which began on August 2, 2005, when he ascended to the throne as the 10th Alake of Egbaland, is his ability to foster unity, peace, tranquility, and community development among his people. Under his leadership, the region has witnessed substantial physical infrastructure and economic development in both Abeokuta and the surrounding communities within the six local government areas predominantly inhabited by the Egbas.
To truly appreciate why the Egbas are celebrating this monarch’s octogenarian milestone, it’s crucial to understand their intricate yet highly sophisticated traditional system of governance. This system, which has demonstrated its effectiveness, serves as a model for potential emulation and development, particularly in the context of restructuring the current federal system in Nigeria.
The Egbas have a unique tradition where four traditional rulers coexist and jointly govern in one prominent town, namely Abeokuta township. These rulers include the Alake of Egbaland (paramount ruler of the Egbas), the Osile of Oke Ona Egba (ruler of Oke Ona Egba), the Agura of Gbagura Egba, and the Olowu of Owu Egba. Notably, the subjects of all these traditional rulers are Abeokuta natives.
Furthermore, every Egba individual rightfully belongs to two local government areas. While their homestead is in Abeokuta town, which has been constitutionally divided into Abeokuta South and Abeokuta North LGAs, every true Egba person must also have roots in a community or village within one of the four other local government areas in Ogun Central Senatorial District: Ifo, Obafemi Owode, Odeda, and Ewekoro. These communities were originally farmlands where their ancestors established their farms.
This unique arrangement clarifies why former President Olusegun Obasanjo is often associated with Owu, Abeokuta, and Ibogun simultaneously. Some even include Ota, where General Obasanjo’s Obasanjo Farms is headquartered, as part of his affiliations. It’s essential to note that Obasanjo Farms also operates in various regions across Nigeria, such as Lanlate in Oyo State, Mambila in Taraba State, and Owiwi in Ifo LGA, among others.
In Abeokuta, where Alake, Oke Ona, Gbagura, and Owu rulers coexist, all Egbas maintain respect for each traditional ruler. This federal system has proven successful, and the traditional Egba chieftaincy titles are shared among indigenes from different quarters. In the past, differences in personalities and idiosyncrasies sometimes led to disagreements among the monarchs. However, this era of discord has faded away since the current Alake assumed leadership, with the cooperation and support of his fellow monarchs.
Today, all Egba traditional rulers function as a united team, characterized by cooperation, shared objectives, and harmonious relationships among their monarchs. Under Oba Gbadebo’s leadership, the unhealthy rivalries and disputes have ceased to exist. These monarchs now attend each other’s personal or community events, reflecting the newfound unity.
This unity has also extended to prominent Egba individuals, who now work collaboratively and rally around their monarchs, erasing distinctions in terms of origin. The peace and harmony in Egbaland is a testament to Oba Adedotun Gbadebo’s character and leadership.
As someone who has served on the State Executive Council for four years, I had the privilege of closely observing and interacting with Kabiyesi. He epitomizes the qualities of a true gentleman, often described as an “Officer and gentleman,” owing to his decorated military background as a retired Colonel. He joined the military after obtaining a degree from the University of Ibadan’s Faculty of Arts.
During his military career, Oba Gbadebo held a high-ranking position as the Principal Staff Officer to the Chief of Staff, Supreme Headquarters, Brigadier Tunde Idiagbon. His colleagues admired him for his work ethic, organization, focus, and discipline, all of which contributed to his role in the military administration led by Major General Muhammadu Buhari.
Oba Gbadebo is known for his gentle demeanor, eloquent speech, and impressive articulation. He carries himself with the grace of someone who has seen the world and experienced life’s many facets. He is also an avid golfer, often recalling rounds played with his late friend and fellow monarch, the Agura of Gbagura Egba, Oba Saburi Babajide Bakre. These golfing outings were a cherished part of their friendship, and Oba Bakre had even extended an invitation to me to join them on the Abeokuta Golf Course, as he was eager to introduce me to the sport.
Oba Gbadebo is approachable and friendly to everyone. I particularly enjoyed the friendly banter between him and the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, whenever they met at events in the Governor’s Office during my tenure as Commissioner for Information and Strategy in the State. Their exchanges were marked by hearty laughter as they exchanged playful remarks.
The Egba monarch is known for his measured, persuasive speech when discussing development projects, industrial ventures, or business ideas that can generate employment opportunities, advance the modernization of Egbaland, and draw international attention to Abeokuta and its burgeoning communities.
There is a belief that Oba Gbadebo has a significant role to play in Egbaland’s rapid physical and economic development during his reign. It is no surprise that his name, ‘Adedotun,’ which means ‘crown is renewed,’ has brought renewal, modernization, and enhanced prominence to the Egbas on the national stage.
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Under his leadership, Egbaland has seen an Egbaman rise to the position of
President of Nigeria (former President Olusegun Obasanjo), a Speaker of the House of Representatives (Dimeji Bankole, also an alumnus of Baptist Boys High School, BBHS), and the posthumous recognition of late M.K.O. Abiola as the winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election. Additionally, Ogun State, of which Egbaland is a significant part, has had two Egbaman governors, Senator Ibikunle Amosun and Chief Olusegun Osoba.
Oba Gbadebo hails from the Laarun Ruling House. His great-grandfather, Oba Okukenu, was the first Alake of Egbaland. His grandfather, Oba Gbadebo, served as the sixth Alake from 1898 to 1920, while his uncle, Oba Samuel Adesina Gbadebo, was Okukenu III. Oba Gbadebo himself holds the title of Okukenu IV. The Laarun ruling house traces its lineage to an Alake who reigned in the 1700s before the Egbas’ migration to their present home in Abeokuta.
Oba Gbadebo serves as the Chairman of the Board of Oando PLC and holds the position of Chancellor at the Federal University, Ndufu Alike Ikwo (FUNAI), Abakaliki, Ebonyi State. His status as a royal figure who is approachable and supportive of development initiatives has earned him the respect and admiration of all Egbas and people from Ogun State and across Nigeria who come forward with ideas for the country’s progress.
Oba Gbadebo is a true embodiment of an apolitical royal figure, and his considered contributions to national matters are highly regarded by all. Even at 80, he appears youthful, vigorous, and ready for a game of golf at any time. He is a source of celebration for the Egbas and their well-wishers across Ogun State, Nigeria, and the world.
Numerous activities have been planned to celebrate the monarch, including special prayers in mosques and churches, particularly at the Cathedral Church of St. Peter’s in Ake, Abeokuta. This church holds the distinction of being the first church in Nigeria and houses the initial copy of the Holy Bible ever brought into the country.
This colorful festival, organized to honor a monarch who has earned the admiration of his subjects and friends, celebrates the 80th birthday of Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo. His wisdom and leadership have brought about peace, progress, and unity in Egbaland, and today is a day of joyous celebration.
Happy 80th birthday, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, omo Ara Ake Majo. Majomeji. Omo Eruninsinni. Ekokinsineniyan. Oju a ma ri Odun. Ajinde ara ma je o.
The founder and pioneer National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Ralph Nwosu, has said the party has not yet reached a final decision on zoning its presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 general elections.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
reports that Nwosu made this known in an interview with Punch, while responding to calls by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for the North to produce the next president.
He explained that the ADC currently maintains an open structure regarding its presidential ticket, giving all regions equal opportunity to contest.
According to him, “In ADC, it is open.”
Nwosu noted that zoning had been a subject of discussion during coalition negotiations, with some Northern stakeholders arguing for fairness based on political rotation since 1999.
He said some young Northerners who visited him argued that since the return to democracy, power has been shared unevenly between the North and South, which influenced how he now views the debate.
He added that while he had not initially considered it from that angle, the argument reflects a political reality being discussed within the system.
On how the party intends to choose its presidential candidate, Nwosu said the ADC is considering two possible methods—consensus and direct primaries.
He explained that if stakeholders agree, a consensus arrangement would be adopted, but where disagreements arise, the party would proceed with direct primaries, and the winner would emerge as the flagbearer.
Nwosu also disclosed that several prominent politicians have indicated willingness to support whoever emerges as the party’s candidate, regardless of outcome.
He mentioned figures such as Rotimi Amaechi, Atiku Abubakar, and Peter Obi as those who have reportedly made such commitments, adding that he expects Rabiu Kwankwaso to also take a similar stance.
He stressed that transparency remains central to the ADC’s internal processes, noting that this principle guided the party’s leadership structure and decision-making.
According to him, the leadership arrangement, including the role of David Mark, was supported because of the need for credible and transparent primaries within the party.
Former presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Rabiu Kwankwaso, has called on Nigerians both within the country and in the diaspora to actively participate in the 2027 general elections.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
reports that Kwankwaso, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), made the appeal in a video posted on his official handle on Monday night.
The former Kano State governor urged citizens, particularly young people, to complete their voter registration with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ahead of the polls.
He also encouraged Nigerians to register with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), as the coalition party positions itself ahead of the 2027 elections.
He said, “Fellow Nigerians, it is time for every eligible Nigerian young and old, in the cities and in the villages, at home and in the diaspora to take two decisive steps:
“Register to vote with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) without delay.
“Register with the African Democratic Congress (ADC).”
Meanwhile, a factional leader within the ADC, Nafi’u Bala Gombe, has dismissed any engagement with Kwankwaso, claiming his past actions towards the North make such discussions meaningless.
Speaking in an interview with Premier Radio in Kano, Gombe accused Kwankwaso of failing to act in the best interest of Northern Nigeria when he had the opportunity.
He further alleged that Kwankwaso contributed to the region’s political setbacks, insisting he did not use his past positions to bring meaningful development.
Gombe said Kwankwaso once reached out with suggestions on solutions for the North, but he rejected the idea, accusing him of failing the region when it mattered most.
He also claimed that Kwankwaso’s participation in the last general election weakened the North’s political influence, especially with other major contenders in the race.
The ancient town of Kishi in Irepo Local Government Area of Oyo State came alive on Monday as indigenes and visitors gathered to celebrate the centuries-old Adasobo Festival, a cultural event deeply tied to the identity and heritage of the people.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The festival, which attracts sons and daughters of Kishi from across Nigeria and the diaspora, is marked by traditional rites, symbolic performances, and communal gatherings that reflect the town’s rich cultural history.
During a visit by our correspondent on April 20, 2026, key locations such as the palace of the Iba of Kishi and Ansarudeen School—situated near the town’s market and serving as major festival grounds—were filled with activity. Chiefs, elders, and residents all gathered in colourful traditional attire to observe the rituals and pay homage to the monarch.
Royal Presence And Cultural Celebration
The Iba of Kishi sat in state as traditional chiefs and subjects paid homage in line with long-established customs. The palace courtyard was filled with drumming, chants, and cultural performances that entertained the gathering.
The monarch and his wife were seen enjoying the festivities while awaiting the return of hunters who had gone into the forest as part of the festival’s traditional rites.
Speaking on the significance of the event, the Laha of Kishi land, Dr Yusuf Adeleke Ibrahim, described the Adasobo Festival as a strong symbol of unity and identity for the people.
He explained that the hunters’ expedition into the forest and the presentation of their catch form a key part of the tradition, with rituals performed upon their return.
According to him, the festival is not only a celebration but also a reminder of ancestral roots and communal bonds.
Another traditional leader added that the festival helps younger generations reconnect with their heritage at a time when modern influences are gradually affecting cultural practices.
Hunters’ Return Highlights Festival
A major highlight of the celebration was the return of local hunters from the surrounding forests with animals they had successfully hunted. Their arrival was met with excitement as residents lined the streets to welcome them.
The display of the hunted game is symbolic, representing courage, skill, and the historical importance of hunting in the community’s way of life.
Beyond its cultural significance, the festival also boosted social and economic activities in the town, with traders, food vendors, and artisans recording increased patronage as visitors thronged the area.
Reunions, music, and celebrations filled the streets as families and friends came together for the occasion.
Grand Finale Ahead
Dr Ibrahim also announced that the grand finale of the Adasobo Festival will take place on Saturday, with dignitaries and neighbouring communities expected to attend.
Residents expressed anticipation for the closing ceremony, which is expected to feature more elaborate cultural displays and larger crowds.
For the people of Kishi, the Adasobo Festival remains more than a cultural event—it is a living tradition that preserves their history, celebrates their identity, and strengthens their unity.
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