The Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has installed Saka Awojoodu as the new Jaaran Adimula of Ile-Ife.

In a statement on Friday, Ooni’s palace spokesperson, Moses Olafare, said the installation rites attracted palace chiefs, traditional priests, and other key stakeholders within the Ife traditional council.

He said the Ooni, represented by the Obalufe of Ife, Idowu Adediwura, and the Lowa Adimula of Ife, Adekola Adeyeye, led the installation rites 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.

Mr Olafare said that 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.

Speaking during the ceremony, the Obalufe of Ife, Idowu Adediwura, urged the new chief to discharge his duties with integrity, humility, and unwavering loyalty to the throne of Oduduwa.

Also addressing the gathering, the Lowa Adimula of Ife, 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, Mr Awojoodu 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 the entire Ife community that he would serve diligently, protect the land’s cultural heritage, and support initiatives to sustain peace, development, and unity in Ile-Ife.

Prior to his installation, Mr 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.

The Jaaran Adimula is a senior member of the Ife kingmakers who plays a pivotal role in traditional matters, including succession processes and palace advisory functions.

By traditional ranking, the Jaaran is next in hierarchy to the Lowa Adimula; notably, the current Lowa Adimula, Adekola Adeyeye, previously held the position of Jaaran Adimula before his installation as Lowa Adimula.

(NAN)