Amanze Chinonye
Nigeria’s political and traditional establishment converged on Ile-Ife on Sunday as First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, was installed Yeye Asiwaju Gbogbo Ile-Oodua during activities marking the 10th coronation anniversary of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Prime Business Africa reports.
The ceremony, held at the palace square, drew an unusually broad coalition of national figures, reflecting the symbolic weight of the honour and the influence of the Ooni within Nigeria’s cultural and political landscape.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former First Lady Patience Jonathan, the Sultan of Sokoto, and governors Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), and Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos) were among the dignitaries in attendance. Also present were former Ogun State governor Ibikunle Amosun, members of the diplomatic community, senior traditional rulers and political leaders across party lines.
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The scale and diversity of the turnout stood out, underscoring the Ooni’s ability to convene high-level actors from across Nigeria’s political spectrum. Analysts say the event served as both a cultural celebration and a moment of political signalling, reinforcing the Tinubu administration’s engagement with influential traditional institutions.
In his remarks, the Ooni described the First Lady as “a mother to the nation” and praised her commitment to cultural preservation and women’s empowerment. The title, one of the most prominent within the Yoruba traditional hierarchy, is conferred on women recognised for their leadership and service within the broader Yoruba community.
Senator Tinubu described the honour as “humbling,” expressing appreciation to the Ooni and reaffirming her commitment to initiatives targeted at women and youth. She also used the occasion to express confidence in Nigeria’s economic trajectory under the current administration.
The installation formed a key highlight of the monarch’s ongoing 10th coronation anniversary celebrations, but it was the high-profile convergence of political actors some of whom have not traditionally shared platforms that gave the event additional national visibility.
For many observers, the gathering illustrated how Nigeria’s traditional institutions continue to function as a point of unity and influence in a politically polarised environment.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
