… Oba Arowotawaya II set to host royal fathers, high-net-worth personalities as ancient town marks 926-year history
Written By Rashidat Okunlade
The ancient town of Erinmo-Ijesaland in Osun State is set to host a historic convergence of royal fathers, traditional rulers, and high-net-worth personalities this Saturday as HRM Oba (Dr.) Michael Odunayo Ajayi Arowotawaya II, the Elerinmo of Erinmo-Ijesa, Chairman of all Obalufon Descendants Obas in Osun State and also Vice Chairman of Osun State Council of Obas hosts the grand Agidanyin Festival 2026.
The highly anticipated cultural event holds profound historical significance, tracing back to 926 AD when Obalufon Alayemore founded Erinmo-Ijesaland.
A Confluence of Royal Fathers
Expected to grace the occasion are some of the most prominent traditional rulers in Yorubaland, underscoring the deep reverence for the Agidanyin Festival and the strong traditional ties that bind the kingdoms of the South-West together. Agidanyin Festival has been graced in the past by Ooni of Ife, Ojaja II, Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesaland, Ajimoko III, Orangun of Oke Ila, Ajalaye of Ipetu ijesa, Olobu of Ilobu, Owaomiran of Esa Oke, and Owa Oye of Imesi ile.
Leading the roll call of distinguished monarchs is the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Senator) Rashidi Adewolu Akanmu Ladoja (Arusa I), who was crowned as the 44th Olubadan on September 26, 2025.
Other distinguished monarchs expected to storm Erinmo for the celebration include:
His Imperial Majesty, Oba Peter Oluwole Ipadeola Ilufemiloye Akinyooye III — The Olufon of Ifon-Osun (Aremo Obatala of the Universe)
His Royal Majesty, Oba Jimoh Adebowale Adesoye (Adetona I) — The Elerin of Erin-Ile
His Royal Majesty, Oba Yusuf Kolawole Omoloye Oyagbodun II — The Elerin of Erin-Osun
His Royal Majesty, Oba Olayinka Oyetunde Ishola Jokotola (Jokotola II) — The Olojudo of Ido-Osun (Olojudo-Alayemore)
His Royal Majesty, Oba Abdulrasaq Taiwo Ajibade Adegboye (Abioye III) — The Alawo of Awo
His Royal Majesty, Oba Festus Kayode Alao Awogboro — The Alademure of Ibokun
His Royal Majesty, Oba (Engr.) Moses Oluwafemi Agunsoye Abikehin-Ekun Agunsoye II — The Elegboro of Ijebu-Jesa
The gathering of these first-class and highly respected obas underscores the deep reverence for the Agidanyin Festival and the strong traditional ties that bind the kingdoms of Yorubaland together.
Beyond the royal presence, the festival is also expected to attract top high-net-worth personalities, investors, and dignitaries from across the country, further elevating the profile of the cultural celebration.
A Celebration of Heritage and History
The Agidanyin Festival is more than just an annual gathering; it is a living testament to the enduring legacy of the Erinmo people. By commemorating the founding of the ancient town by Obalufon Alayemore nearly a millennium ago, the festival serves as a crucial link between the past and the present.
Under the leadership of Oba Arowotawaya II, the festival has evolved into a major platform for cultural tourism, community development, and the projection of Erinmo-Ijesa’s rich heritage onto the national stage.
Why It Matters
The convergence of such a high number of prominent monarchs in Erinmo-Ijesaland is a powerful display of Yoruba cultural solidarity and the deep-rooted respect for traditional institutions in Nigeria.
In a modern political landscape where the relevance of traditional rulers is sometimes debated, events like the Agidanyin Festival prove that the monarchy remains a vital pillar of societal cohesion, cultural preservation, and grassroots development. The presence of the Olubadan of Ibadanland one of the most influential thrones in Yorubaland at an event in Erinmo-Ijesa speaks volumes about the interconnectedness of the Yoruba race.
Furthermore, the introduction of high-net-worth individuals and investors into the cultural space is a strategic move. It bridges the gap between heritage and commerce, turning traditional festivals into engines of economic growth through tourism, hospitality, and potential local investments.
As Erinmo-Ijesaland marks 926 years of history, the Agidanyin Festival stands as a reminder that a people who do not know their history are doomed to repeat it. Oba Arowotawaya II is ensuring that the legacy of Obalufon Alayemore is not just remembered, but actively celebrated and monetized for the benefit of the current generation.
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