By Adeyemi Adekunle
In a decisive move to reinforce the cultural heritage and administrative structure of Osun State, Governor Ademola Adeleke has approved the appointments of Prince Adesuyi Haastrup as the Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesha land and Prince Johnson Adekanmi Abikoye as the Asaoni of Ora Igbomina. The announcement, which came during the final Osun State Executive Council meeting of 2024, underscores the governor’s commitment to stability and progress within the state’s traditional institutions.
In a statement signed by Oluomo Kolapo Alimi the Honourable Commissioner,
Information and Public Enlightenment in Osun state said the elevation of Prince Haastrup follows the passing of the revered Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran II on September 11, 2024. Similarly, Prince Abikoye’s ascension fills the vacancy left by Oba Tinuoye Atolagbe, who passed away on November 19, 2023. Both appointments were ratified in accordance with the Chiefs’ Law of Osun State, 2002 (Cap 25), a testament to the government’s adherence to due process.
Governor Adeleke, in congratulating the new monarchs, urged the people of Ijesha land and Ora Igbomina to rally behind their traditional rulers. He emphasized the importance of peace and unity as essential tools for fostering development in the respective communities. “The choices of Prince Haastrup and Prince Abikoye reflect not only tradition but also the aspirations of their people. Let their reigns be marked by harmony, growth, and cultural renaissance,” Adeleke remarked.
Beyond the royal appointments, the governor used the platform to recognize the exceptional contributions of his cabinet members throughout 2024. In what he described as a year of notable achievements, Adeleke expressed his profound gratitude for their dedication and innovation, which he credited for the state’s forward strides in governance, infrastructure, and socio-economic development.
Passing a vote of confidence on the executive council, Adeleke stated, “This year has been remarkable because of your hard work and unflinching commitment to the vision of this administration. You have set a standard of excellence, and I challenge you to build on these accomplishments in 2025. Let us remain steadfast in our collective mission to uplift Osun State.”
The governor’s acknowledgment of his team’s efforts highlights a year defined by collaborative leadership and strategic governance. With eyes set on 2025, the administration appears poised to exceed the benchmarks set in the outgoing year, promising a renewed focus on inclusive development and service delivery.
For many, the dual actions of affirming leadership in traditional institutions and lauding administrative performance signal a balanced governance approach—one that respects cultural heritage while driving contemporary progress. As Prince Haastrup and Prince Abikoye prepare to assume their roles as monarchs, and as cabinet members ready themselves for new challenges, Osun State stands at the cusp of another chapter in its evolving story.
In what has become a hallmark of his administration, Governor Adeleke has once again demonstrated that leadership is best exercised with a blend of reverence for tradition and a vision for the future.
