The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has installed Chief Saka Awojoodu as the new Jaaran Adimula of Ile-Ife.
This is contained in a statement issued by the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Ooni’s Palace, Mr Moses Olafare, on Friday in Ile-Ife.
Olafare said the installation rites attracted palace chiefs, traditional priests, and other key stakeholders within the Ife traditional council.
He stated further that the Ooni, who was represented by the Obalufe of Ife, Oba Idowu Adediwura and Lowa Adimula of Ife, Oba Adekola Adeyeye led the installation rites held at Oke-Emese within the palace premises.
According to him, the rites were performed in strict adherence to the customs guiding the appointment of high-ranking chiefs in Ile-Ife for centuries.
Olafare said following the formal installation, the newly installed Jaaran Adimula was accompanied by traditional priests and palace functionaries on a symbolic procession around major compounds and sacred sites across Ile-Ife.
According to him, the movement forms part of the spiritual and traditional rites required to formally assume the responsibilities attached to the exalted office.
Speaking during the ceremony, the Obalufe of Ife, Oba Idowu Adediwura, urged the new chief to discharge his duties with integrity, humility, and unwavering loyalty to the throne of Oduduwa.
Oba Adediwura emphasised the importance of preserving the sanctity of the institution and upholding the customs that define the identity of the Ife people.
Also addressing the gathering, the Lowa Adimula of Ife, Oba Adekola Adeyeye, encouraged the new Jaaran to see his elevation as a call to greater service.
He charged him to work harmoniously with other kingmakers and palace chiefs to strengthen unity within the traditional council and contribute meaningfully to the growth and stability of Ile-Ife.
In his acceptance remarks, Awojoodu, expressed gratitude to the Ooni for finding him worthy for the office.
He pledged his loyalty to the throne and promised to uphold the traditions, values, and responsibilities associated with the title of Jaaran Adimula.
He assured the palace and entire Ife community that he would serve diligently, protect the cultural heritage of the land, and support initiatives aimed at sustaining peace, development, and unity in Ile-Ife.
Prior to his installation, Awojoodu held the title of Yegbata of Ife and served as the head of the Emeses at the Ooni’s Palace, positions that prepared him for his new role within the hierarchy of the traditional institution.
Recall that the Jaaran Adimula is a senior member of the Ife kingmakers, who plays a pivotal role in traditional matters, including succession processes and advisory functions within the palace.
By traditional ranking, the Jaaran is next in hierarchy to the Lowa Adimula, notably, the current Lowa Adimula, Oba Adekola Adeyeye, previously held the position of Jaaran Adimula before his installation as Lowa Adimula.
