The ancient town of Kuta was ago on Sunday as Olowu of Kuta, HRM Oba Dr Hameed Adekunle Makama Oyelude, CON, Tegbosun III, received dignitaries across Nigeria to celebrate his 60th birthday anniversary.
Prominent among the dignitaries were former president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Governor Ademola Adeleke, former governor of Osun State, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, former chief of army staff, Gen TY Buratai rtd who also doubles as Balogun Agba Akin of Kuta and the executive chairman of federal character commission, Dr Muheeba Dankaka.
Traditional rulers at the ceremony include Ooni of Ife, HIM Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Olowu of Owu (Abeokuta) Oba Prof Saka Matemilola, , HRM Oba Munirudeen Lawal and Emir of Biu, Alhaji Midala Mustapha Umar amongst others.
Speaking earlier with journalists, Oba Makama said he was elated to receive the creme de la creme of the society on his 60th birthday.
The revered monarch said his 60th birthday anniversary was put together by his admirers, friends, and well-wishers across the country.
He, however, advised that traditional rulers should adhere strictly to their mandate as Custodians of culture and traditions, adding that Obas are not installed to be religious leaders.
The 60th birthday was preceded by a series of events like the Olowu Marathon, Walk For Life, and a Healthcare/ medical checkup.
There were also fireworks at the dot of midnight on Sunday to herald Olowu Kuta into his 60th birthday.
The Marquee Tent, which served as the venue of the ceremony, was filled.
The Bonsue Fuji Crooner, Adewale Ayuba, was a delight to watch as he dished out good music, relishing his bonsue style as guests also appreciated him.
Gen Buratai,who is a personal friend and confidant of Olowu Kuta, said he’s delighted to be part of the celebration of the monarch who has distinguished himself as a detribalized Nigerian.
Governor Adeleke, in a statement issued by his spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, commended Olowu Kuta “as a delightful example of devotion to the people”.
The statement read; “The Executive Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke has rejoiced with the Olowu of Kuta, HRM Oba Hameed Adekunle Makama Oyelude (Tegbosun III), on the auspicious occasion of his birthday, describing him as a delightful example of devotion to the people.”
Governor Adeleke, who acknowledges Oba Oyelude, sustained efforts in fostering peace and harmony in his domain, noted that the monarch’s open-door policy and soft power approach have engendered unity among subjects.
The Governor lauds Oba Oyelude’s steadfast observation of culture and traditions, adding that the monarch continues to inspire a great deal of interest in Yoruba’s rich heritage through appearances and utterances.
“On this auspicious day, I congratulate HRM Oba Hameed Adekunle Makama Oyelude (Tegbosun III). Oba Oyelude is a striking pointer of what purposeful leadership should look like considering the profound impact of his influence on subjects and Kuta town,” the governor noted in a congratulatory message.
“As he turns 60 years today, I join every sons and daughters of Kuta to celebrate Kabiyesi and commend him for the incredible leadership he exudes just as I honor his commitment to fostering peace and stability by promoting harmony in his domain.
“It is my prayer that God Almighty will grant Kabiyesi more celebrations in good health, strength, and wisdom so that he can continue to offer impactful leadership and also to contribute to the promotion of Yoruba’s culture, traditions, and values.”
Also, Prince Oyinlola said Olowu Kuta’s ascending to the throne of his forebears has brought development to the ancient town.
He, however, wished Oba Makama a long life and prosperity, as he journeyed ahead in his mandate as Custodian of culture and traditions.
Other side attractions include ‘Iwure’ by Chief Yemi Elebuibon, ‘Oriki’ by Ajobiewe.
The Osun State cultural troupe was a delight to watch, while a northern group based in Kano entertained the guests with melodious songs laced with Hausa-Fulani traditions.
Oreoluwa is an accountant and a brand writer with a flair for journalism.
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