The Onitafin of Orile Tafin in Odeda Local Government Area of Ogun State, Oba Morufu Alani Olalekan Adebayo, has conferred the prestigious traditional title of Asiwaju Yeye Oge of Orile Tafin on veteran journalist, Princess Folake Adunni Adeyemi, in recognition of her outstanding contributions to humanity and community development.
The colourful installation ceremony, held at the Onitafin Palace in Abeokuta, was one of the major highlights of activities marking the monarch’s 70th birthday anniversary. The four-day celebration featured community development projects, empowerment programmes, lectures, traditional rites and a grand reception attended by traditional rulers, community leaders, media professionals and other dignitaries from within and outside Ogun State.
Speaking during the ceremony, Oba Adebayo described Princess Adeyemi as a compassionate, hardworking and selfless woman whose dedication to the welfare of others had earned her widespread admiration.
The monarch noted that the veteran journalist had consistently contributed to the growth and development of Orile Tafin even before receiving the honour, adding that the chieftaincy title was a recognition of her unwavering commitment to the progress of the community.
Oba Adebayo also called on sons and daughters of Orile Tafin, both at home and in the diaspora, to remain united and work collectively towards the peace, stability and sustainable development of the ancient town.
According to him, meaningful development can only be achieved through unity, collective responsibility and genuine commitment to the welfare of the people. He urged stakeholders to support initiatives that would improve education, infrastructure, youth empowerment and economic opportunities for residents.
Expressing confidence in the new title holder, the royal father said Princess Adeyemi would leverage her experience, influence and extensive network to attract opportunities that would further advance the fortunes of Orile Tafin.
He also prayed for God’s guidance, wisdom, sound health and long life for the newly installed Asiwaju Yeye Oge as she undertakes the responsibilities of her new office.
Responding after her installation, Princess Adeyemi expressed gratitude to God and the Onitafin for the honour, describing the recognition as both unexpected and the fulfilment of a lifelong aspiration.
She recalled her long-standing relationship with Oba Adebayo, which predated his ascension to the throne, and commended the monarch’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to community development.
Describing Orile Tafin as a peaceful, hospitable and united community blessed with accomplished sons and daughters, the veteran journalist pledged to use her new position to promote peace, unity and inclusive development.
She promised to champion programmes focused on women empowerment, youth mentorship, educational advancement and strategic partnerships that would improve the quality of life of the people.
Princess Adeyemi further assured the traditional ruler and the people of Orile Tafin that the confidence reposed in her would not be misplaced, pledging to serve as a worthy ambassador of the community while working closely with the traditional institution and development partners to attract meaningful investments and opportunities.
The installation ceremony attracted several eminent personalities, including the Towulade of Owu Akinale, Oba Oluseyi Adediran, other traditional rulers, community leaders, family members, media practitioners, associates, friends and well-wishers, who joined in celebrating the Onitafin’s 70th birthday anniversary and the elevation of Princess Folake Adunni Adeyemi as the Asiwaju Yeye Oge of Orile Tafin.
