Osogbo Celebrates Historic Installation Of Teslim Igbalaye As Bobagunwa
By Kehinde Adeoye
Amidst pomp and pageantry, the beautiful city of Osogbo witnessed a historic moment as Hon. Teslim Adekunle Igbalaye, the Secretary to the Osun State Government, was installed as the new Bobagunwa of Osogbo. This grand occasion took place at the Ataoja’s palace, with His Royal Majesty, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji (Larooye II), the Ataoja of Osogbo, presiding over the ceremony. Teslim Igbalaye succeeds his late father, Alhaji Abdulrasheed Igbalaye, who was the pioneer Bobagunwa of Osogbo.
The installation ceremony drew a massive crowd, with people from far and near gathering to witness the significant event. The Ataoja’s palace was filled with dignitaries, traditional leaders, and well-wishers, all coming together to celebrate the elevation of Teslim Igbalaye to this prestigious title.
The title of Bobagunwa, which carries immense prestige, is conferred strictly upon deserving sons of Osogbo—those who have played a significant role in the growth and development of the city. It is not only a recognition of Teslim Igbalaye’s past achievements but also a reaffirmation of his vital connection to the culture and traditions of Osogbo. The title places a great responsibility on him, binding him to the royal lineage and to the future of Osogbo. His actions and decisions as Bobagunwa will influence the direction of the city for generations to come.
The word Bobagunwa in the Yoruba language translates to “to reign with the king.” This deep-rooted meaning reflects the profound nature of the role and its importance in Osogbo. It signifies a commitment to the Ataoja and to the land of Osogbo, underlining the dedication and loyalty expected from the holder of this title. Teslim Igbalaye’s role will involve not only supporting the king but also serving the people and culture of Osogbo with unwavering devotion.
During the ceremony, the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji, emphasized the sacredness of the Bobagunwa title, urging the new Bobagunwa to hold the title in high esteem. He underscored that the responsibility entrusted to Teslim Igbalaye must never be taken lightly, and that he must never betray the trust placed in him, either by the king or the people of Osogbo. The Ataoja’s words resonated with the gravity of the title and the expectations for its holder.
In response, Teslim Igbalaye expressed his deep commitment to serving Osogbo with diligence and dedication. He assured the Ataoja and the people of Osogbo that he would work tirelessly to uphold the values and traditions of the city, while fostering further development and unity among its people. Teslim also pledged to honor the legacy of his late father, whose contributions to Osogbo and Osun State are still remembered fondly today.
In his short address, Governor Ademola Adeleke thanked the Ataoja of Osogbo for deeming Teslim Igbalaye worthy of the prestigious title. He expressed his gratitude on behalf of the entire government of Osun State, emphasizing that Osogbo has been a steadfast supporter of his administration from day one. His appreciation underscored the significant role the city of Osogbo continues to play in the governance and development of the state.
Like his father before him, Teslim Igbalaye’s installation as Bobagunwa marks the continuation of a legacy built on profound patriotism and a relentless commitment to the progress of Osogbo and Osun State. The people of Osogbo, who owe much to his father’s visionary leadership, now look to Teslim to carry on this legacy, as he assumes a role that is not only an honor but also a responsibility to the future of the city.
Among the distinguished guests who attended the installation ceremony were the Governor of Osun State, His Excellency, Senator Ademola Adeleke, the Deputy Governor, Prince Kola Adewusi, Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Hon. Adewale Egbedun; Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Akinyode Abidemi Oyewusi, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Alhaji Kazeem Akinleye, Senator representing Osun West Senatorial district, Sen. Lere Oyewunmi, Senator representing Osun Central, Sen. Olubiyi Fadeyi-Ajagunla, State PDP Chairman, Hon. Sunday Bisi, Former Chief of Air Marshal, Air Mashal Oladayo Amao, the lawmakers representing Irepodun/Orolu/Olorunda/Osogbo Federal constituency, Hon. Adewale Morufu Adebayo; and the former Governor of Osun State, His Excellency, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Formwr Deputy Governor, Titi Laoye-Ponle, the Secretary to the Kogi State Government, Dr. Folashade Arike Ayoade, the Timi of Ede Land, Oba Munirudeen Lawal, along with other political and traditional leaders
As the new Bobagunwa of Osogbo, Teslim Igbalaye’s journey is just the beginning, and all eyes will be on him as he takes up this sacred mantle, guided by the traditions of the past and the hopes of the future.
