By Adekunle Oluwafunmilayo
The ancient town of Molipa Ijebu in Ogun State was filled with excitement and cultural splendour on Saturday as the Lipa of Molipa Ijebu, Oba Adeyemi Abiodun Odubena, marked his 78th birthday anniversary with a grand celebration attended by eminent personalities from within and outside the state.
The colourful event, held at the royal palace in Molipa Ijebu, drew traditional rulers, political office holders, community leaders, family members, and well-wishers who gathered to celebrate the monarch’s life, leadership, and contributions to the development of the kingdom.
A major highlight of the occasion was the conferment of chieftaincy titles on distinguished sons and daughters of Molipa Kingdom in recognition of their outstanding service and commitment to community development.
Among those honoured were Tomi Ayannuga and Mrs. Victoria Ayannuga, who were installed as Otunba and Yeye Otunba Gbadega; Mr. Albert Adekola and Mrs. Vera Adekola, who received the titles of Otunba and Yeye Otunba Bobagunwa; as well as Oluwaseun Durojaiye and Mrs. Anuoluwa Durojaiye, who were installed as Otunba and Yeye Otunba Fuwagboye of Molipa Kingdom.
The installation ceremonies, accompanied by traditional rites and palace protocols, were witnessed by chiefs, community stakeholders, and guests who commended the monarch for recognising individuals contributing to the progress of the kingdom
Speaking during the celebration, Oba Odubena expressed gratitude to God for granting him the privilege of celebrating another year in good health, peace, and fulfilment. He also appreciated the people of Molipa Ijebu for their steadfast support, loyalty, and prayers throughout his reign.
The royal father charged the newly installed chiefs to justify the confidence reposed in them by continuing to promote peace, unity, and sustainable development within the community while preserving the rich cultural heritage and traditions of Molipa Kingdom.
Also speaking, the Ogun State Commissioner for Transportation, Gbenga Dairo, who was previously installed as Otunba Fehintade and Olori Omoba of Molipa Ijebu Kingdom, congratulated the monarch on the milestone birthday and prayed for continued good health, wisdom, and prosperity.
Dairo expressed appreciation to the monarch and the people of Molipa Kingdom for the honour bestowed upon him, pledging his continued support for the development of the community.
In his remarks, Engr. Tomi Ayannuga, the newly installed Otunba Gbadega of Molipa Kingdom, thanked the monarch for the recognition, describing the title as a call to greater responsibility and service to the people.
He pledged to contribute meaningfully to initiatives aimed at advancing the growth and development of Molipa Kingdom.
The event featured colourful cultural displays, traditional music, prayers, and entertainment, creating a festive atmosphere as guests joined the royal father in celebrating a memorable occasion.
The celebration further underscored the enduring significance of traditional institutions in fostering unity, preserving cultural values, and promoting community development across Ogun State.
