The ancient city of Ile-Ife, revered as the cradle of the Yoruba race, was abuzz with eminent personalities on Saturday as the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan
Ogunwusi, bestowed the prestigious title of Yeye Moremi Oodua upon Chief Mrs. Olufunsho Amosun, wife of former Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun.
The colourful installation ceremony, held at Afenworo Square opposite the Ooni’s Palace, coincided with the 60th birthday celebration of the philanthropist and founder of the Uplift Development Foundation.
The event drew a distinguished gathering, including former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, represented by his wife, Mrs. Bola Obasanjo, and Oyo
State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mrs. Obasanjo, representing the former President, highlighted the significance of the Yeye Moremi title, describing it as one of the most revered honours in
Yorubaland.
She noted that the title embodies courage, sacrifice, service to humanity, and a steadfast commitment to cultural preservation.
Obasanjo further commended the Ooni for his dedication to sustaining the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba race and promoting unity and development across Nigeria.
In her acceptance speech, the newly installed Yeye Moremi Oodua, Chief Mrs. Olufunsho Amosun, expressed profound gratitude for the extraordinary honour.
She humbly accepted the responsibility, pledging to uphold the virtues and legacies of the legendary Queen
Moremi Ajasoro, an iconic heroine of Yorubaland known for her bravery, sacrifice, and selflessness.
Mrs. Amosun emphasized that the title is not merely ceremonial but a divine call to serve God and humanity with passion, empathy, humility, and integrity.
Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi congratulated Chief Olufunsho Amosun, describing her as a compassionate and selfless woman whose lifestyle reflects the virtues of Moremi Ajasoro.
He recounted the heroic tale of Queen Moremi Ajasoro, who made immense
sacrifices for the liberation, protection of the Yoruba people, underscoring that the Yeye Moremi title is reserved for women of exceptional character, integrity, and service to humanity.
The monarch charged the new Yeye Moremi to continue making a positive
impact on society and promoting the cultural values, unity, and progress of the Yoruba race.The event also served as a platform for unity, with Oyo State Governor Engr. Seyi Makinde stressing the importance of cohesion among Yoruba leaders, irrespective of political affiliations.
He remarked that the gathering exemplified the collective interest and unity of the Yoruba nation, offering hope for the future of the race.
The ceremony was graced by a host of dignitaries, including former governors, senators, members of the House of Representatives, prominent business leaders.
And traditional rulers from various parts of Yorubaland, all converging to witness the historic installation and celebrate a woman dedicated to service and cultural preservation.
