The Ijesa North Traditional Council of Obas has inaugurated a new president to steer the affairs of the council, which comprises traditional rulers from Obokun and Oriade local government areas of Osun State. His Royal Majesty, Oba (Engr.) Moses Oluwafemi Abikehin-Ekun Agunsoye II, the Elegboro of Ijebu-Ijesa, was formally installed as President of the Council during a colourful and well-attended ceremony.
As part of his leadership duties, Oba Agunsoye will serve a one-year tenure as President of the Ijesa North Council of Obas and concurrently hold the position of Chairman of the Oriade Local Government Chieftaincy for a two-year term.
He takes over from the Owamiran of Esa-Oke, Oba Adediran Adeyemi, who successfully completed his tenure. The peaceful and orderly transition underscored the unity and cooperation among the monarchs in the region.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Agunsoye expressed heartfelt gratitude to his predecessor for his exemplary leadership and dedication. He praised the outgoing president for fostering peace, strengthening unity, and ensuring a smooth handover within the council.
Highlighting the need for collaboration, Oba Agunsoye urged fellow traditional rulers to renew their commitment to the socio-economic development of Ijesa North. He emphasized that unity, cooperation, and a shared vision among the royal fathers are critical to driving grassroots transformation and community progress.
The newly inaugurated president used the occasion to appeal to the Osun State Government, under the leadership of Governor Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, to urgently address the deplorable condition of the collapsed bridge connecting Eree-Ijesa and Ilahun-Ijesa. According to him, residents of both communities have endured over nine months of suffering and isolation due to the failed infrastructure.
Oba Agunsoye also commended the state government for its prompt intervention in restoring peace in Esa-Oke following a recent communal crisis. He lauded the swift response of relevant authorities in quelling tensions and maintaining law and order in the affected area.
Concluding his remarks, the monarch called on his fellow kings to remain advocates of peace, love, and unity within their domains. He warned against acts that could lead to boundary disputes or encourage illegal gold mining, stressing that traditional rulers have a sacred duty to protect their heritage and uphold integrity.
“Our actions today will define the legacy we leave behind for our children and generations yet unborn,” he stated.
