Ikorodu, Lagos – August 2, 2025 It’s a decade of reign and reverence as His Royal Majesty, Oba Engr. Dr. Kabiru Adewale Shotobi (Ilufemiloba), Adegorushen V, the Ayangburen of Ikorodu and Permanent Vice Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, officially kicked off celebrations to mark his 10th coronation anniversary.
The anniversary festivities commenced with a powerful cultural showcase titled “Woro and Olomba Day,” led by Ikorodu’s traditional Isèsé groups and associations. This symbolic beginning reflects the king’s deep connection to heritage, spirituality, and indigenous values of the Yoruba people.
The Sacred Journey: “Woro” Cultural Procession
The Woro procession followed a deeply rooted cultural trail beginning from Iledi Osugbo at Ajina and winding through various historic streets including Adenaike Alagbe, Orita Maluti, Ita-Elewa, and Ayangburen Road—finally returning to the Ayangburen Palace. Along this vibrant route, traditional chants, dances, and spiritual displays ignited the spirit of the land and its people.
Dignitaries including Oba (Engr.) Monsuru Abimbola Oladega (AKINMASA I), Olu of Agboyi Kingdom, Olori Abosede Shotobi, High Chief Odofin Adewunmi Adedeji Ogunsanya (SAN), Iyaoloja Chief Mrs. Dcns. Busola Isikalu, and European Union representatives from Germany were in attendance to honour the monarch and celebrate the cultural significance of the event.
Royal Reflections and Deep Gratitude
In his royal address, Oba Shotobi extended heartfelt appreciation to the traditional custodians, High Chiefs, Baales, and especially the Lasunwon and Rademo ruling houses for their support since his ascension in 2015. He emphasized the importance of culture in kingship and development:
“We began this 10th Coronation celebration with the Olombas because they were instrumental in my installation. They crowned me, performed the sacred rites, and have remained pillars of peace and progress for our land.”
The monarch called on all traditional groups to participate fully in the week-long activities culminating on August 10, 2025. He also paid tribute to former Lagos Governor Babatunde Fashola, who officially presented his staff and certificate of office in 2015.
Elesho: “They Crowned the King. They Deserve the Honour.”
Speaking to QuickGist, Otunba Ayodele Elesho, Agba Akin of Ikorodu and former Lagos State Commissioner for Information, emphasized the role of traditional institutions:
“Olomba refers to the traditional organizations that preserved and protected Ikorodu’s soul. They didn’t just select Kabiyesi; they crowned him and have since ensured the spiritual strength of this community.”
“We’re celebrating them because they’re still the ones performing the rituals and maintaining peace, progress, and harmony across Ikorodu.”
He also revealed that while some ceremonies will remain sacred and private, the community would continue to honour culture as a core part of its identity.
Asiwaju Kaoli and Otunba Abiru Add Their Voices
Also speaking to QuickGist, Asiwaju Kaoli Olusanya praised the Ayangburen’s peaceful and progressive reign:
“Kabiyesi is a lovable, people-oriented king who understands the value of culture. This week-long event isn’t just a celebration—it’s a statement that Ikorodu remains deeply rooted in tradition and committed to preserving its heritage.”
Otunba Ganiyu Abiru, in his remarks, reflected on the historical relationship between the monarchy and culture:
“The strength of any kingdom lies in its culture. Our kingship thrives because we have not abandoned the rituals, values, and community wisdom handed down through generations.”
