Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, officially presented the staff of office and instrument of appointment to Oba Adesuyi Haastrup as the new Owa-Obokun of Ijesaland on Sunday.
The ceremony, held at Obokungbusi town hall in Ilesa, was graced by prominent Nigerians and traditional rulers, including the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; the Orangun of Ila, Oba Wahab Adedotun; and other distinguished royal fathers.
The enthronement of Oba Haastrup follows the passing of his predecessor, Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran, who ruled for 40 years and died on September 12, 2024, at the age of 86.
Speaking at the event, Governor Adeleke commended the new monarch’s vast experience and urged him to harness his local and international connections for the development of Ijesaland. He also assured the community of his administration’s commitment to statewide developmental efforts.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Haastrup pledged to prioritize unity, development, and the empowerment of the people.
“The time for the contest is now over. Let us come together and unite to build a stronger and more prosperous future for all the people of Ijesaland. For me, there is ‘No Victor, No Vanquished,’” the monarch said.
He outlined plans to establish a vocational school in Ilesa to train artisans, reduce unemployment, and boost local production. He also promised to combat land grabbing in Ijesaland, declaring zero tolerance for such practices.
Oba Haastrup announced initiatives to promote economic growth through agriculture, agro-allied industries, and strategic development ventures.
“There shall be zero tolerance for land grabbing in my name or that of others, no matter how highly placed. Efforts shall be made towards the establishment of Ijesa Technical Institute, focusing on producing skilled artisans, as seen in countries like China and Ghana,” he said.
Following the presentation of the staff of office, Oba Haastrup commenced his seclusion for traditional rites. A statement from the Owa Obokun Media Office confirmed that a date for his elaborate coronation ceremony would be announced after the seclusion period.
Oba Haastrup, a former deputy governor of Osun State, takes on this role with a vision to transform Ijesaland into a hub of growth, innovation, and cultural pride.
