By Stella Williams
The royal drums of Ogba Kingdom echoed through the air as the palace courtyard came alive with music, dance, and celebration. For the people of this ancient land, it was more than just a ceremony—it was history unfolding before their eyes.
On this remarkable day, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Surveyor) Egbeyemi Lateef Oladimeji, the Ologba of Ogba, installed ten new chiefs who will share in the sacred responsibility of guiding the kingdom into its next chapter.
The palace, adorned with colourful fabrics, traditional ornaments, and cultural regalia, was a beehive of activity. Guests, dignitaries, and community members thronged the venue, each eager to witness a moment that blended tradition with modern aspirations.
Oba Oladimeji, clad in regal attire, radiated joy as he addressed his people. He thanked God for the success of the installation and expressed profound happiness at the opportunity to strengthen the leadership structure of Ogba Kingdom.
But the king’s message went beyond the palace gates. Speaking to journalists, he touched on the wider Nigerian experience, calling for unity across ethnic divides. “Every tribe in Nigeria has been living and doing things in common,” he said. “We must put aside our differences. The Yoruba, Igbo, and Hausa must come together to salvage Nigeria and take her to greater heights.”
He revealed that one of his newly installed chiefs was an Igbo man, a deliberate choice that symbolized inclusivity. “I am a completely detribalised Nigerian,” the monarch declared. “Born and raised in Lagos, my service year took me to Bauchi State in 1992. At that time, there was no Boko Haram. Bauchi was like a second home to me.”
For him, Nigeria’s diversity is not a problem but a strength. “I can never subscribe that we go our separate ways,” he emphasized. “What we need is to build on what unites us.”
Turning his attention to the newly installed chiefs, the Ologba urged them to see their roles as a call to service. “Join me to make Ogba a better place for everyone,” he charged. His words carried the weight of tradition, but also the optimism of a modern leader.
Among the dignitaries who graced the occasion was Honourable Oluwatosin Adamson Ayinde, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Industrial Training and Development. His presence underscored the significance of the event not just for Ogba, but for the broader Nigerian community.
Ayinde commended the monarch for his dedication to youth empowerment and community development. “His Royal Majesty is a man of intellect and wisdom,” he said. “With these qualities, I have no doubt that Ogba land will reach greater heights.”
The presidential aide also highlighted the efforts of his office in building Nigeria’s future workforce. He spoke about the National Industrial Manpower Summit, which recently empowered youths with starter packs worth millions of naira and offered scholarships for further training abroad.
“These young people will return with knowledge and skills to impact their communities,” Ayinde explained. “That is the kind of vision we need, and it aligns with what we see His Royal Majesty doing here in Ogba.”
The spiritual dimension of the event was provided by Venerable Bisi Togbola, Vicar of the African Church, Ogba Parish. Recently posted to the parish, he expressed gratitude for being invited to witness the historic occasion.
“God has truly blessed Ogba land with this king,” Togbola said, offering prayers for Oba Oladimeji’s reign. He also encouraged the newly installed chiefs to work with unity of purpose, reminding them that leadership in the kingdom is service to both God and the people.
Guests at the ceremony included the Acting Chairman of Agege Local Government, Honourable Vinod Obasa, as well as the Oba of Oregun and the Olu of Agege. Their presence further cemented the event as one of regional significance.
For many in attendance, the installation was more than just a royal tradition. It was a reaffirmation of identity, culture, and the hope of a people determined to preserve their heritage while embracing modern progress.
The dances, the music, and the communal joy that filled the air reminded all present that Ogba is not just a kingdom but a living community—one that thrives on unity, diversity, and a shared vision of the future.
As the sun set on the palace, the newly installed chiefs, draped in their regalia, pledged allegiance to the Ologba and the people of Ogba. Their oaths carried the promise of service, loyalty, and dedication.
For Oba Oladimeji, it was not just a day of tradition fulfilled, but a step toward his broader dream: an Ogba Kingdom that serves as a shining example of unity in diversity, and a Nigeria where heritage and hope walk hand in hand.
