The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has officially approved the appointment of Prince Olagoke Owoyomi as the new Obajio of Ife.
This announcement was made on Wednesday through a statement issued by the Director of Media and Public Affairs at the Ooni’s Palace, Otunba Moses Olafare.
According to the monarch, the appointment was the result of a transparent selection process involving three qualified princes from the Alayo and Bamidein ruling houses.Prince Owoyomi, a respected farmer and entrepreneur from the Alayo ruling house in Moore, Ile-Ife, was chosen after what the Ooni described as a rigorous and fair screening.
“The Ooni-in-Council constituted a five-member committee to thoroughly evaluate the three candidates before arriving at the final decision,” the statement noted.
The other contenders for the title were Prince Olagbenga Owoyomi and Prince Kola Ogunrinola, both representing the Bamidein ruling house.Oba Ogunwusi emphasized that Prince Olagoke Owoyomi was selected based on his proven integrity, deep respect for cultural heritage, and dedication to community development.
“As the newly appointed Ejio of Ife, you are expected to uphold the honor of this esteemed title with loyalty, wisdom, and humility, while working to promote unity, peace, and progress in Ile-Ife,” the Ooni said in the official letter of appointment.
The palace also stated that the date for Prince Owoyomi’s formal installation and presentation will be announced soon, in accordance with traditional customs and palace protocols.
This appointment reflects the Ooni’s ongoing commitment to reinforcing traditional leadership and ensuring capable individuals occupy key roles in the historic Yoruba kingdom.
