The Obadofin Elect, Chief Julius Arokoyo has paid a thank you visit to the Palace of His Royal Majesty, Oba Michael Ibinaiye, the Obajemu of Oweland as parts of his ongoing thank-you tour to stakeholders involved in the selection process.
The visit which coincided with the monarch’s official monthly meeting with the Okemeta Owe community.
In attendance were esteemed guests, including Oba Joseph Osatuyi, Oba of Odolu and Head of the Odolu Ruling Group; Oba Tolorunleke Matthew, Obagbayi of Oweland and Chairman of the selection committee; and his committee members. Also present were Chief Adegboyega Aka, Chairman of Okemeta Council of Chiefs, Okemeta title chiefs, clan heads, custordiance of Owe culture and youths.
The gathering warmly welcomed the Obadofin Elect, and prayers were offered for peace and development in the community as he prepares to assume office.
In his speech, Chief Arokoyo expressed his commitment to continue to promote peace and tranquility, assuring that no one would be left behind in the process of accomplishment.
He thanked everyone for their patience in awaiting government confirmation and pronouncement and expressed confidence in Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s ability to uphold the position of the Owe people.
HRM Obajemu of Oweland, Oba Michael Ibinaye, utilised the occasion to enlighten the gathering about the significance of “Onko” (general meeting) in Owe culture and tradition.
He traced the history, order, and rules of Onko to past generations, emphasising its importance as a platform for collective decision-making and information dissemination.
The order of speakers during Onko follows a hierarchical structure, from non-title holders to title holders, and finally, the village head or Ololu.
The village head or Ololu speaks last on any issue before the gathering, ratifying the agreed-upon decision with wisdom derived from contributions from members with pronouncements made by the village head or Ololu is considered law.
The monarch highlighted the unique aspects of Owe culture, including self-esteem, discipline, and unwritten customs passed down through generations.
He explained that Onko at any palace continues even after the passing of the village head or Ololu until a replacement is elected.
The Obajemu of Oweland urged all present at the gathering to serve as ambassadors for the Kabba Development Union (KDU) in promoting this year’s Kabba Day celebration.
He emphasized the importance of collective involvement, stressing that a successful event requires the participation and support of every community member.
The gathering praised Oba Ibinaye’s cultural intellect, accumulated over decades, and thanked him for hosting the meeting.
While Chief Adegboyega Aka and elderly traditional title holders corroborated the monarch’s narration, expressing gratitude for his purposeful leadership.