Ayede Ogbese, Akure North – The peaceful town of Ayede Ogbese became a center of tribute and honour as it bid a solemn farewell to HRM Oba Raphael Ajibola Olaleye Oluyede, Ise Oluwa II, the Alayede of Ayede Ogbese. Over the course of five days, a series of events celebrated the life and legacy of the late monarch, drawing together a wide array of dignitaries, traditional rulers, community leaders, and residents.
The week began with a grand concert, the Oba Awon Oba Farewell Concert, held at the Community Celebration Arena. This vibrant event was attended by many dignitaries, demonstrating the high regard in which Oba Oluyede was held. The arena was filled with the sounds of traditional music and dance, as various cultural groups paid homage to a monarch who had dedicated his life to the preservation of Yoruba culture.
Throughout the week, tributes to Oba Oluyede’s legacy continued. At the Royal Ranch in Ayede Ogbese, a Service of Songs, Testimonials, and Tributes brought together family, friends, and the broader community. The event was deeply moving, with heartfelt testimonials reflecting on the monarch’s life, leadership, and the profound impact he had on the community. The service also included the installation of the new Regent, Princess Dr. Oluwafunmito Oluyede Campbell, ensuring the continuity of the royal lineage and the traditions that Oba Oluyede so dearly upheld.
The communal valedictory service that followed was an all-denomination gathering, highlighting the unity that Oba Oluyede fostered among the diverse religious groups in Ayede Ogbese. The service was a testament to the monarch’s ability to bring people together in peace and harmony, a legacy that his successor will no doubt seek to continue.
The week of remembrance reached its conclusion with a Thanksgiving Service at St. Andrew Anglican Church in Ayede Ogbese. This service was attended by a distinguished array of guests, led by the Governor of Ondo State, H.E. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa. The Governor, accompanied by his entourage, paid tribute to the late monarch, acknowledging his significant contributions to the development of Ondo State and his role as a unifying figure in the community.
In addition to the Governor, the events were graced by Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire, representing Ondo Central, and numerous other political figures, captains of industry, and traditional rulers. Among them were Chief David Onoja (Oloro), Chief Babatunde (Olu of Bolorunduro), Chief Olarewaju Omobomi (Olu of Boluwaduro 2), and Chief Raphael Ajigbade (Olisa of Boluwaduro 2 Camp). The presence of Ilaje dignitaries, including Hon. Otito Atikase and Chief Benjamin Olomidegun, underscored the influence of Olori Funmi Oluyede, a prominent daughter of Ilaje.
The farewell events also saw leaders from various ethnic communities paying their respects. Mr. Sylvester Egbe, leader of the Igbo community, Mr. Abdul Subairu, leader of the Ebira community, and Mr. John Chibogwu, leader of the Ukwuani Delta community, were among those in attendance. Their participation highlighted the diverse and inclusive nature of the Ayede Ogbese community under Oba Oluyede’s reign.
Also present were key figures from professional and trade associations, including Mr. Badmus Ajiboye (Chairman, Tailors Association), Mr. Adebo Ajayi (Chairman, Okada Riders), and Mrs. Ola Roseline Michael (Chairlady, Police Wives Association). Business leaders like Mr. Elfash (CEO, Elfash Fuel Station), Mr. Mobowale (CEO, MGS Fuel Station), and Mrs. Joy Daniel (Chairlady, All Igala Ladies Association) further added to the distinguished gathering.
The comprehensive list of dignitaries in attendance speaks to the far-reaching impact of Oba Oluyede’s life and leadership. The final day of the ceremonies marked a fitting conclusion to a week that will be remembered as a significant chapter in the history of Ayede Ogbese. As the community looks forward to a new era under the regency of Princess Dr. Oluwafunmito Oluyede Campbell, the memory of HRM Oba Raphael Ajibola Olaleye Oluyede will continue to inspire and guide his people.
