Ilasa-Ekiti (Ekiti State)-Princess Jolaade Onipede on Thursday assumed the royal stool of Ilasa-Ekiti in Ekiti East Local Government Area of Ekiti State, following the demise of her father, late Oba Abel Ajibola.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Onipede is the current Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Republic of Congo Brazzaville.
The new regent was led into the palace by thousands of Ilasa-Ekiti indigenes cutting across various age groups, chiefs and other residents.
They all danced round the town to celebrate her return as the royal head of the community.
This followed the state government’s pronouncement and recognition of the Ilasa-Ekiti-born Nigerian ambassador as the rightful person to occupy the position.
Necessary traditional rites were performed for the regent at the palace by kingmakers.
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Addressing the people of the town, the regent said she was able to ascend her father’s throne after several crises, through the help of God.
She attributed the success of her ascension to the support of Ilasa people, transparency and respect for the cultural heritage “as epitomised by Gov. Ayodele Fayose.’’
She thanked the Fayose-led government for restoring peace and tranquility to the town.
Onipede said she had forgiven those who rebelled against her installation as the regent of the town and appealed to all indigenes to join hands with her in bringing rapid socio-economic growth to the community.
The regent promised to ensure the quick appointment and succession of a new Oba and called on kingmakers to expedite action on it.
NAN reports that the ceremony was attended by kingmakers, chiefs of the town and Caretaker of Ekiti East Local Government, Mr Dele Falayi.
They all solicited in separate interviews with NAN for the support and cooperation of the people at ensuring quick succession of a new king.
NAN reports that before her national assignment as Nigerian Ambassador, Onipede was a former commissioner in the state and held several political offices.
The late Alasa of Ilasa-Ekiti, Oba Abel Ajibola, who ruled for 64 years joined his ancestors on Oct. 1, 2012.
The demise of Alasa brought about the appointment of his first daughter, Jolaade Onipede as the regent and was traditionally installed on Oct. 30, 2012. (NAN)