By Samuel Sunday
Ado-Ekiti is set for a historic five-day celebration as the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, His Imperial Majesty Oba Dr. Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe Aladesanmi III, marks his 80th birthday and 35 years on the throne, with a packed programmes of cultural, religious, and academic events scheduled for November 19 to 23.
The Chairman of the Organizing Committee and President of the Ado Progressive Union, Engineer Prince Segun Famuagun, on Monday announced the activities during a press briefing at the Ewi’s palace in Ado-Ekiti, the State capital.
Noting that the preparation that began on February has now reached the peak as he described the dual celebrations as a moment of pride for the entire Ado-Ekiti sons and daughters home and abroad.
Highlighting the programme of events, the Chairman explained that it would begin with traditional homage as various quarters in Ado-Ekiti would storm the palace from 9:00 O’ clock in the morning with colourful processions, music, and cultural displays. The day’s activities will be rounded off with the final of the anniversary football match at Christ’s School field by 4:00pm.
On Thursday, the palace will be hosting a major colloquium themed “Celebrating Heritage and Tradition.” where the keynote speaker, Prof. Akindele Adetoye of Ekiti State University, will lead discussions on the historical evolution of Ado-Ekiti, Kabiyesi’s impact on community development, and the role of royalty in modern society. Adding that the day will also feature a scholarship and award ceremony for indigent but brilliant students.
Friday’s events include a special Jumat service at the Central Mosque by 12:00 pm, followed by a drama performance, photo and art exhibitions at the palace.
The drama will highlight the life and contributions of the Ewi, offering residents a chance to relax and reflect through culture and storytelling, said the Chairman.
Stressing further, Prince Famuagun said Saturday will witness the grand book launch of Kabiyesi’s new work and conferment of chieftaincy titles on deserving sons and daughters of Ado-Ekiti saying the book will be reviewed by Prof. Yusuf Ali (SAN), while the chief launcher is Dr. Tunji Olowolafe, the Chancellor of Ekiti State University ( EKSU). While the former Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun and Hon. Dapo Kolawole, the Founder of Venite University will serve as co-launchers.
The event would be Chaired by Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu. While Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, will be the royal father of the day.
The climax of the occasion is Sunday, which marks the Kabiyesi’s 80th birthday as thanksgiving service will hold at Emmanuel Cathedral, Okesa, by 10:00am, after which guests will return to the palace for a grand reception within and outside the halls in the palace.
Famuagun noted that Ado-Ekiti has received massive support from donors, well-wishers, and stakeholders, praising their trust in the transparency and developmental strides of the monarch.
He added that security and crowd management have been carefully planned, including temporary access routes to ease movement despite the construction works in some parts of the city.
He also clarified that markets will remain open for businesses during the celebrations with the emphasis that activities might be slightly slow down during certain events.
