His Royal Majesty, Alayeluwa Oba Adeola Adekinle (Ajagungbade Okunola II), the esteemed Awara of Iwara Kingdom in Atakumosa East Local Government Area of Osun State, has officially resumed his royal duties yesterday after successfully completing his three-month seclusion period (Ìpèbí). This significant traditional rite marks the beginning of his reign.
Following his appointment as the Awara of Iwara Kingdom by the Executive Governor of Osun State, His Excellency Senator Ademola Jackson Adeleke, the revered monarch was warmly welcomed by the people of Iwara, well-wishers, and dignitaries. The joyous occasion symbolized the community’s acceptance and celebration of their new king.
During the 90-day seclusion period, as part of the traditional monarchal rites, Oba Adeola Adekinle visited sacred sites, including Owá nísé, Àbèrè Ogun, and Omi Ìyá Òkun, to perform spiritual rites and pray for the prosperity of the community and a successful reign as the Awara of Iwara Ijesa Kingdom.
After completing the seclusion rites, Oba Adeola Adekinle was led around the community in a grand procession, a customary practice symbolizing his deep connection to the land and his subjects. A highlight of the ceremony was his visit to the sacred Omi Orí-Òkè Yèyé stream, where he offered prayers for wisdom, strength, and a successful reign. The stream holds great spiritual significance, traditionally believed to be a place where past monarchs sought divine guidance from their ancestors.
Following his visit to Omi Orí-Òkè Yèyé, the revered monarch proceeded to Omi Awóyaya, another sacred water body in Iwara town. There, he engaged in further prayers, seeking blessings for prosperity, peace, and unity within the kingdom. The Omi Awóyaya stream is deeply respected by the people of Iwara, who believe in its ancestral powers and spiritual importance in the enthronement of their kings.
The completion of the seclusion rites marks the full integration of Oba Adeola Adekinle into his royal duties. His triumphant return to the palace signifies the beginning of a new era of visionary leadership, cultural preservation, and development in Iwara Kingdom. The people of Iwara have high expectations for his reign, hoping for progress, stability, and a strengthened traditional institution under his guidance.
The joyous celebration witnessed an outpouring of goodwill messages from community leaders, chiefs, and residents, who expressed their unwavering support for the new monarch. Traditional drummers and royal praise singers added color to the occasion, showcasing the rich heritage of Iwara Kingdom.
As His Royal Majesty ascends the throne of his forebears, the people of Iwara pray that his reign be filled with divine wisdom, peace, development, and prosperity. They also expressed hope that he will lead with fairness and courage, bringing growth and unity to Iwara Kingdom.
