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Oyo Lawmakers Seek To Ban Single-Use Plastics, As Bill Scales First Reading

February 12, 2026 by admin

IBADAN – THE Oyo State House of Assembly on Thursday took the first reading of a Bill seeking to prohibit the production, importation, distribution, sale and use of single-use plastics across the State, as part of legislative efforts to curb plastic pollution and promote environmental sustainability. The Bill, titled Oyo State Single-Use Plastics Prohibition (SUPs) Bill, 2026, was read on the floor of the House during plenary presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adebo Edward Ogundoyin. The proposed legislation is jointly sponsored by the Chairman, House Committee on Environment, Ecology and Water Resources, Hon. Olorunpoto Cephas Rahaman (Oyo East/Oyo West), the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin (Ibarapa East), and the Leader of the House, Hon. Sanjo Adedoyin (Ogbomoso South). According to the provisions of the Bill, the law seeks to phase out all forms of single-use plastics in Oyo State, including plastic shopping bags, sachet water bags, plastic straws, cutlery, cups, plates and Styrofoam containers commonly used for food and beverage packaging. The Bill also specifically prohibits the use of plastic straws and cutlery in eateries, event centres and other public places. To allow for a smooth transition, the Bill provides for a twelve-month phase-out period from its commencement, during which public sensitisation and behavioural change campaigns will be intensified. The transition period is also expected to enable manufacturers, vendors and consumers to adopt biodegradable and environmentally friendly alternatives. The Bill vests enforcement powers in the Oyo State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, which is mandated to establish a Task Force on Plastic Pollution Control to monitor compliance and enforce the law. The Task Force is to collaborate with Local Government Authorities, civil society organisations, environmental marshals and security agencies, while the Ministry may also deploy digital tracking mechanisms and whistleblower reports to strengthen enforcement. The proposed law outlines graduated penalties for offenders, ranging from warnings and mandatory environmental awareness training for first-time offenders to heavy fines, compulsory corporate social responsibility projects and possible closure of business premises for repeat offenders. Companies that continue the production of single-use plastics after the expiration of the phase-out period will also be liable to a special environmental tax of not less than 500 per cent of the regular production tax. In addition, the Bill makes provisions for the promotion of biodegradable and compostable products by supporting local manufacturers, facilitating access to technical assistance and encouraging research and development through partnerships with academic and research institutions. It also proposes incentives such as tax waivers, grants, subsidies and preferential procurement policies for businesses producing eco-friendly alternatives. The Bill further mandates medium and large-scale businesses operating in the State to commit to corporate environmental responsibility through community-based sanitation and periodic environmental clean-up activities. Provisions are also included to promote recycling through investments in waste collection, sorting and recycling infrastructure, as well as public-private partnerships to establish recycling hubs across Local Government Areas.

Alaafin Absent As Olubadan Emerges Chairman Of Oyo Council Of Obas, Chiefs After 15 Years

January 15, 2026 by admin

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, was absent on Thursday as the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, emerged chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs following its inauguration by Governor Seyi Makinde. The inauguration, which took place at the House of Chiefs, Agodi Secretariat, Ibadan, marked the reconvening of the council after 15 years of inactivity. Oba Ladoja was appointed chairman of the council for a two-year tenure, in line with an earlier agreement by the three foremost traditional rulers in the state to rotate the chairmanship. Daily Independent Reporter who covered the event report that although the Alaafin of Oyo is a co-chairman of the council, he was noticeably absent from the inauguration ceremony. Speaking before inaugurating the council, Governor Makinde said the reconstitution of the council was not an achievement but a necessity, stressing that the traditional institution remains critical to peace, stability and development in the state. He explained that he had met with the Alaafin of Oyo, the Olubadan of Ibadanland and the Soun of Ogbomosho, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, and that they unanimously agreed to a rotational chairmanship arrangement with a two-year tenure. Makinde said: “The Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs last met in 2011. For close to seven years since this administration came into office, the easiest thing would have been to encourage division. But we chose unity because many of our achievements can be traced to the support of our traditional institutions. “No matter how difficult an issue is, we always resolve it with my three fathers – the Alaafin of Oyo, the Olubadan of Ibadanland and the Soun of Ogbomosho. We agreed that the rotation would begin with the Olubadan of Ibadanland, and on that basis, I hereby inaugurate the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs with the Olubadan as chairman for two years.” The governor lamented that a state reputed for leadership had operated without a functional council for over a decade. “For 15 years, we have not had a council of Obas and Chiefs. Without a council, what we have is an ad-hoc arrangement, which has been the case since 2011. Governance is more effective when traditional institutions are properly structured and strengthened,” he said. Makinde also revealed that the law establishing the council was passed by the State House of Assembly and signed into law on August 14, 2025. Earlier, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Ademola Ojo, described the inauguration as a testament to the enduring relevance of traditional institutions as custodians of culture, values and communal harmony. Ojo said traditional rulers had remained pillars of peace, moral authority and grassroots development, complementing government efforts across the state. “This council last existed in 2011. Its re-inauguration underscores the commitment of Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration to strengthen collaboration between government and traditional institutions. “Governance is most effective when modern administration works hand in hand with time-honoured traditional leadership,” he said. He added that the council would serve as an advisory body on peace-building, conflict resolution, cultural preservation, policy formulation and community development. In his remarks after the inauguration, Oba Ladoja assured residents of the council’s commitment to peace, unity and development across the state. “This inauguration is not an achievement; it is the beginning of work. We are not in competition with one another, and we are not here to pursue personal interests. Our focus is to ensure that our domains are safe and peaceful and that Oyo State continues to make progress,” he said. According to the Olubadan, the council is about collective responsibility and cooperation for the good of the state. “This is not about any individual. It is about bringing people together and working together for the good of all,” he added.

Seven Days Of Oro Rites Govern Alaafin’s Actions, Not Ego – Yoruba Chief Dismisses Claims Of Snubbing Olubadan

January 13, 2026 by admin

IBADAN – THE Atóbaáse of Yorubaland, Chief Babajide Agunbiade, has dismissed claims that the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade I, disrespected the Olubadan of Ibadanland or any other Yoruba monarch during a recent inter-faith gathering in Oyo State, explaining that the monarch’s conduct was dictated by centuries-old sacred oro rites. In an open letter on Tuesday addressing the controversy, Agunbiade said public speculation suggesting a “snub” was a misreading of the ancient traditions governing the Alaafin’s stool. “The Alaafin is bound by sacred oaths and ritual observances that predate modern Nigeria,” he said. The Yoruba chief explained that the Alaafin is currently observing the seven-day oro rites, a traditional practice that imposes strict limitations on physical conduct and public interactions. During this period, certain gestures of greeting, including standing to receive visitors, are prohibited, irrespective of the visitor’s rank or prominence. “At no time has the Alaafin shown disrespect to the Olubadan or any other traditional ruler,” Agunbiade wrote. “Any assumption of discourtesy ignores the sacred obligations that every occupant of the Oyo throne must uphold.” He emphasized that these rites are neither optional nor negotiable. “To expect otherwise would be to demand that the Alaafin compromise the sanctity of an institution that has existed for over a thousand years,” Agunbiade added. The Atóbaáse called on the Yoruba public to reflect on the importance of tradition, hierarchy, and ancestral institutions. He warned that interpreting the monarch’s conduct through the lens of social media commentary or temporary public opinion risks undermining centuries of Yoruba civilization. “The Alaafin is not merely an individual,” he said. “He is the living embodiment of an ancient institution charged with preserving Yoruba culture, diplomacy, and governance. Fidelity to tradition is paramount.” Agunbiade also recalled the historical significance of the Oyo Empire, which between the 14th and 19th centuries unified vast Yoruba territories, institutionalized governance, and projected cultural and military influence across what is now Nigeria and the Republic of Benin. “To respect the Alaafin is to respect this history, not as an act of superiority over other thrones, but as acknowledgment of distinct roles within our shared Yoruba heritage,” the letter noted. The Yoruba leader stressed that the Alaafin seeks peace, harmony, and mutual respect among all traditional rulers and harbors no personal ill will toward any king. “Tradition must not be misunderstood. Fidelity must not be mistaken for arrogance. Silence must not be misread as hostility,” he added. In conclusion, the Atóbaáse expressed confidence in the Alaafin’s ability to safeguard the integrity of the Oyo throne and Yoruba traditions while urging the public to support and protect the preservation of ancient practices like the oro rites.

Satibo Herbal Bitters Set to Launch in Nigeria, Backed by 60 Years of Organic Excellence

January 13, 2026 by admin

Satibo Herbal Alcoholic Bitters, a new premium product from a family-owned Nigerian natural products company, is set to hit the market this week. A statement by the company’s Chief Executive Officer of Duran Organic Health Limited, Prince Adediran P. Ayeni assured consumers of a smooth herbal taste backed by more than 60 years of organic expertise. “The bitters combine time-tested herbs, roots, and botanicals in a controlled alcohol base for digestion support, appetite stimulation, and general wellness when consumed responsibly. Unlike traditional harsh bitters, Satibo offers a balanced flavour available straight, chilled, or mixed,” he said. He added: “The product’s sleek packaging targets retail shelves, bars, and lounges nationwide.” “After decades of shaping Nigeria’s organic landscape, we’re thrilled to evolve our legacy into Satibo — a bitters that’s as trustworthy as our heritage and as fresh as today’s tastes,” a company representative said. Speaking further, he stated that Satibo is now available through wholesalers, markets, and hospitality venues, supported by digital campaigns, tastings, and nightlife promotions. He equally added that distributors are wanted throughout the country.

Akinyele Constituency I Aspirant Hafeez Amuda Empowers Students, Women, PDP Leaders …T Talent Football Team Wins Maiden Kingsway U-17 Female Football Competition

December 22, 2025 by admin

The Kingsway Health and Outreach Foundation on Friday, December 19, 2025, empowered young girls, secondary school students and women in Akinyele Local Government Area of Oyo State, as it hosted the maiden edition of the Kingsway Under-17 Female Football Competition and Empowerment Programme. The event, which was held at IDC School, Apapa, Moniya, Ibadan, attracted political leaders, party elders, community stakeholders, youth and women representatives. Attendees converged to witness a programme that blended sports development, educational support, women empowerment and grassroots engagement. As part of the initiative, the foundation distributed writing materials and learning instruments to secondary school students across the local government area. The programme was hosted by the Executive Chairman of Akinyele Local Government, Hon. Akinwole Akinleye, alongside Dr. Hafeez Amuda, popularly known as Kingsway, founder of the Kingsway Health and Outreach Foundation and an aspirant for the Oyo State House of Assembly, Akinyele Constituency I. Speaking at the grand finale, Dr. Amuda described the initiative as a deliberate effort to use sports as a tool for empowerment, discipline and social cohesion, particularly for the girl child. According to him, the U-17 female football competition was designed to create opportunities for young girls, encourage teamwork, build confidence and promote healthy lifestyles, while also steering them away from social vices. “This programme goes beyond sports. It represents people-focused leadership, leadership that engages our youths positively, empowers women, supports education and strengthens community unity,” Dr. Amuda said. He added that grassroots sports remain one of the most effective platforms for talent discovery and youth development, stressing that young girls deserve equal opportunities to explore and maximise their potential through sports. Dr. Amuda explained that the distribution of learning materials was part of the foundation’s ongoing commitment to supporting educational development, noting that access to basic learning tools plays a crucial role in academic performance and students’ self-confidence. “Supporting education is supporting the future. These materials may appear small, but they make a significant difference in the learning process of our children,” he said. Mr. Obatowa JP, representing the Commissioner for Education, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, said the Oyo State Government was pleased with programmes that support educational development at the grassroots. “The government is happy with initiatives like this. When individuals support education, it shows a clear commitment to the future of our children. The governor appreciates programmes that promote learning and youth development,” he said. He added that individuals and organisations that consistently support education are recognised by the government, noting that such efforts align with the vision of Governor Seyi Makinde on inclusive development. He also commended the Kingsway Health and Outreach Foundation for complementing government efforts in education and youth development. Some of the student beneficiaries described the support as timely and impactful. One of the beneficiaries, Bolatito, said the learning materials would help her improve in mathematics and other subjects. “It will help me to do better in my subjects and calculations, especially mathematics. I will use the instrument during calculations and examinations,” she said. Another beneficiary, Samuel Paul Oreofe, also commended the foundation for the gesture. “This is a nice idea. We thank him for the gift. God will bless him. It will help in calculations and improve our intelligence for education,” he said. The football competition climaxed with an exciting final match, as T Talent Football Team emerged winners of the maiden edition of the Kingsway U-17 Female Football Competition. The winning team received medals and cash prizes, while other participating teams were also recognised for their efforts.

Students, Management Fume Over ‘Bandits Prank’ Filmed at Lagos Varsity

December 11, 2025 by admin

The Lagos State University community has reacted angrily to a viral prank video in which a group of young men dressed in costumes resembling extremist fighters stormed the campus, causing panic among students. The footage, uploaded on December 5 by Datreez Entertainment TV and titled “Bandits Prank on Lasuites”, showed individuals wearing turbans and desert-style clothing associated with terrorist groups. A behind-the-scenes clip captured them dressing up before jumping into a vehicle and driving chaotically into a crowd of students while a camera operator recorded reactions. Students were seen fleeing and expressing fear, coming at a period when school attacks in parts of Niger and Kebbi States have heightened public anxiety. Checks by PUNCH Online on Thursday showed that the controversial video had been removed from the creator’s page, which has over 3,400 followers and 164,000 likes, although it is still on a creator’s page who claims to be part of the group. In its place, an apology was published in a formal statement on Sunday, Datreez Entertainment International said the entire production was staged. According to the statement, “The content was strictly a social experiment created purely for entertainment purposes. “Every scene, action, and reaction captured in the video was fully staged, involving participants who were aware of the concept and voluntarily part of the production.” The group added that “no member of the public was placed in danger, harmed, or subjected to distress,” and it also apologised for its insensitivity, noting that “Nigeria is currently dealing with sensitive security challenges”. It stated, “We sincerely regret any anxiety, fear, or discomfort the video may have triggered. This was never our intention. “We tender our unreserved apology to the Management of Lagos State University.” The prank has triggered backlash among student content creators, many of whom said it had led to tightened restrictions on campus. On Tuesday, a popular student creator, Anuoluwapo, criticised the act in a video shared on TikTok. “This thing does not make sense. When I saw the video, I could not even continue watching it. “For days now, security officers have been seizing students’ phones and tripods. You cannot even create content freely again on campus. See what this has caused.” He added, “The school supports content creators, but this prank has taken us backwards. Normally, adults do not like content creation, but we the Gen Zs have been trying to make them see its importance. These people have spoiled things.” Other TikTok creators who study at LASU, including Tush Agbero and Temmytayo GP, also posted videos lamenting what they described as stricter monitoring of students on campus. PUNCH Online, however, could not independently confirm whether enforcement measures have formally been introduced. In a statement issued on Sunday, LASU dissociated itself from the recording and described it as unauthorised and unacceptable. “The University did not give any form of approval, authorisation, or endorsement for the recording of the said video,” the statement signed by the Deputy Registrar, Centre for Information and Public Relations, Mrs Thomas-Onashile Oluwayemisi, read. It added, “LASU strongly condemns acts or content that portray or suggest banditry, terrorism, or violent extremism. “The University does not support or encourage any prank that can incite fear, disrupt campus peace, or threaten the sense of safety of its students and staff.” The institution urged students to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to its security unit. LASU, known for its vibrant community of young content creators, has in recent years become a hub for online student-led productions. The prank has now fuelled conversations about the boundaries of creativity and safety on campus. Recall the University of Lagos Akoka, in October had prohibited the unauthorised use of its campus, including hostels and other facilities, for video production by skitmakers, filmmakers, and content creators. According to the management, they aim to protect the academic environment and preserve the institution’s image from misrepresentation in unregulated productions.

Segelu Applauds Akeem Abas, Describes New NUJ Chairman as a Model of Integrity and Quality Leadership

December 11, 2025 by admin

Governorship hopeful and chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, Hon. Olayinka Segelu, has congratulated the newly elected Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, Comrade Akeem Babatunde Abas, describing his emergence as a symbol of integrity, competence, and quality leadership for the media community. In a statement issued by his media aide, Kazeem Awojoodu on Thursday, Segelu said Abas’ victory at the polls was not only well -deserved but also a reaffirmation of the confidence Oyo journalists have in his experience, temperament, and longstanding commitment to ethical reporting. According to him, “Comrade Akeem Abas stands out as a thoroughbred professional whose career in journalism has been marked by truth, balance, and public-interest reporting. His emergence is a strong affirmation that integrity still commands respect in our media space.” Segelu, who has been vocal about the central role of the media in strengthening democracy, noted that Abas’ ascent to the NUJ leadership comes at a crucial time for Oyo State and Nigeria, when the public increasingly relies on journalists for clarity, accountability, and responsible information-sharing. He said, “Journalists remain the backbone of democratic societies. Their work shapes public understanding and ensures leaders are accountable. With Abas at the helm, I am confident that the Oyo NUJ will experience a renewed era of vibrant, principled, and people-focused journalism.” The PDP chieftain also praised the entire NUJ Congress for conducting a peaceful, transparent, and credible election, commending all contestants for displaying maturity and sportsmanship throughout the process. He added, “The peaceful conduct of the election speaks volumes about the unity and professionalism within the Oyo NUJ. Everyone who contested contributed to strengthening internal democracy. What we have witnessed is a family choosing one of its finest to lead.” Segelu urged the new chairman to build on the achievements of the outgoing leadership, particularly in the areas of journalist welfare, press freedom, safety, and professional development. He pledged his continued support for initiatives that enhance responsible journalism and deepen collaboration between media institutions and public leaders. “As Oyo State charts a path toward progressive governance, the media must remain a strong, independent partner. I look forward to working with the new NUJ leadership in fostering transparency, civic engagement, and development across our state,” he stated. Segelu also extended his congratulations to the newly elected executive members of the union, wishing them a productive tenure and praying for wisdom and unity as they begin their leadership mandate. He concluded by expressing optimism that Comrade Akeem Abas will lead the Oyo NUJ into what he called “a bold new chapter of integrity-driven journalism and professional excellence.”

Makinde’s Protocol DG Applauds Outstanding Corps Member Christiana Olaitan, Rewards Her with Cash Gift

December 8, 2025 by admin

It was a moment of joy and excitement for Miss Christiana Olaitan, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member attached to the Protocol Department, Office of the Executive Governor of Oyo State, as she was honoured as the most outstanding corps member at the department upon completing her service year. The Director-General of the Protocol Department, Otunba Samuel Adegboyega, while presenting gifts to the outgoing corps member in his office, described Olaitan as an exemplary youth who demonstrated unwavering commitment, professionalism, and notable tech-savvy capabilities that enhanced her efficiency on the job. “Christiana Olaitan is a corps member who was posted to our Protocol Department here at the Governor’s Office. Since she joined us, she has been active, calm, humble, and has contributed meaningfully to every assignment,” he said. “She was an outstanding corps member throughout her NYSC programme. She blended well with the team; she is intelligent, organised, and possesses excellent teamwork attributes. She handled documents professionally, and throughout her stay, we never had issues, no document ever went missing. She received letters directly, and even though our office is a very sensitive one, she documented everything properly. Anytime I called on her, she delivered.” Otunba Adegboyega added that the gesture was his personal way of appreciating Olaitan’s service, noting that the entire department would soon celebrate her formally. “We would have loved for her to remain with us, but her service year has ended. We wish her the very best in her future endeavours. Congratulations to her,” he said. Reacting to the recognition, an elated Christiana Olaitan expressed gratitude to the department for the support she received during her service year. “The experience has been very good. I appreciate the staff, and I pray our relationship continues to grow,” she said. “I participated in the Olubadan coronation and several other major state events. The DG Protocol and other officials in this department have been like parents to me; they treated me very well.” Olaitan concluded by expressing hope for greater opportunities ahead as she transitions into the next phase of her career.

Amuda Lauds Makinde For Advancing Community Healthcare In Oyo ••Urges Focus On Rural Health, Empowers Aged Women Through NGO

December 3, 2025 by admin

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) aspirant for Akinyele Constituency 1, for the Oyo State House Of Assembly, Dr. Amuda Hafeez, has commended Governor Seyi Makinde for his transformative health policies in Oyo State, describing the reforms as a turning point in the delivery of quality healthcare across the state. Dr. Amuda, who holds advanced qualifications from Obafemi Awolowo University, India, and the United States, and a recent postgraduate degree from Lead City University, Ibadan,said Makinde’s initiatives have brought functional healthcare closer to the people, particularly in communities that previously lacked access to basic medical services. Dr. Amuda Hafeez made the remarks on Wednesday during a recent media chat with journalists. Amuda who recently supported aged women in his Constituency with cash gifts through his Non-governmental organization (Kingsway Health and Outreach Foundation) noted that Governor Makinde has done exceptionally well in ensuring that primary healthcare centers (PHCs) are functional, staffed, and properly equipped. He said, “Many PHCs now operate at standards comparable to private hospitals. Communities that once struggled to access healthcare can now receive quality services within their neighborhoods.” He also praised Dr. Akin Fagbemi, Chairman of the Oyo State Hospital Management Board, for his contributions to the state’s general hospitals. “Through improved administration, better staffing, and reduced drug prices, Dr. Fagbemi has helped raise public confidence in government hospitals. These efforts have encouraged more people to patronize public health facilities, which is a clear mark of progress,” Dr. Amuda added. While highlighting the activities of his own community initiatives, Dr. Amuda maintained that Kingsway Health and Outreach Foundation has been supporting the vulnerable in the society by providing free healthcare services, as well giving out timely monetary support to the aged men and women. He said, “We recently concluded a mega outreach that attended to over 800 people, offering general medical check-ups, essential medications, and eyeglasses. This initiative complements government efforts by reaching those who still face barriers to healthcare access.” On the challenge of brain drain in the health sector, Dr. Amuda noted that inadequate welfare and poor working conditions remain major push factors for medical professionals. “Doctors deserve fair salaries, functional work environments, free health insurance, and proper accommodation. Addressing these issues will reduce strikes and help retain talented professionals within the state,” he explained. Dr. Amuda emphasized that if elected to the Oyo State House of Assembly in 2027, he plans to scale up health outreach programs, strengthen rural PHCs, and integrate his foundation’s initiatives with state health policies to ensure equitable access for all residents. “Governor Makinde has set the standard for functional healthcare. Our role is to extend it further to every ward, leaving no community behind,” he said. He concluded by lauding Governor Makinde’s performance, describing him as a “true achiever” in the health sector and giving him a 10/10 rating for his commitment to improving healthcare delivery and making quality services accessible to communities across Oyo State.

Ooni of Ife Confers Jaran Title on Chief S.A. Awojoodu

November 23, 2025 by admin

The House of Oduduwa, Ile-Oodua, has announced the elevation of Alhaji Chief Sakariyau Ayinde Awojoodu from the position of Yegbata (Olori Emese) of the Emese Court to the revered title of Jaran of Ile-Ife. The announcement was made on Saturday by Chief Lowa Abraham Adekola Adeyeye, in accordance with the directive of His Imperial Majesty, Arole Oduduwa Olofin Adimula, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN) and Chairman of the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC). Expressing gratitude to God and appreciation to the Ooni, Alhaji Awojoodu, fondly called Allah Dey by friends and associates—described his promotion as a profound honour and a renewed call to service. “I give thanks to Almighty God for taking me this far; it has not been easy, but His grace has sustained me,” he said. “I also extend my sincere appreciation to our Baba, the Oonirisa, Oba Babatunde Enitan Ogunwusi, for recognizing my contributions to the palace, the throne of Arole Oduduwa, and the general development of Ile-Ife. I am deeply grateful for this elevation, and I promise to do even more in service to humanity.” Alhaji Chief Awojoodu, also known as Hajji Mimo, began his palace career in March 1985 following the death of his father, Baba Lowa Kasali Awojoodu, on February 27, 1985. He was inducted as a young Emese to fill the vacancy left by his father. The Emeses serve as the royal guards of the Ooni, trained extensively in palace tradition and cultural rites to support the monarch within and outside the palace. Over the course of 40 years, Chief Awojoodu rose through the hierarchical ranks—starting as an Emese, then Loodoko, later Yegbata (Olori Emese), a title he held for about a decade—until his recent elevation to Jaran. “It took me 40 years to get here. Some of the people I started with are no more, and even some who came after me have passed on. It is by God’s grace that I remain,” Alhaji Sakariyau reflected. Known for his loyalty, humility, neatness, and generosity, Chief Awojoodu served as a personal assistant to the late Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade Olubuse II, for many years. During Oba Sijuwade’s reign, he played significant roles in reforms that reshaped the monarchical hierarchy, including the upgrading of several Baales to Obas in various Ife communities, efforts that earned him admiration at home and abroad. A retired primary school administrator, he served in various schools across Osun State and was once Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Ife South Local Government chapter. He remains one of the most respected aides of the Ooni. According to Chief Awojoodu, the title Jaran is the second-in-command to the Lowa. The Ooni of Ife is traditionally advised by sixteen high chiefs—“Ijoye Merindinlogun lo n ba Olufe gbimoran”—with the Jaran being one of the key voices expected to play critical roles in decision-making at the apex of Ile-Ife’s traditional institution. Since the official announcement, friends, family, and well-wishers have flooded the new Jaran with congratulatory messages, praying for long life, sound health, and continued service to the sacred throne of Oduduwa.