UPDATE: NEW OLOWU OF OWU KINGDOM MEETS EX-PRESIDENT OBASANJO, BEGINS TRADITIONAL RITES

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On Monday, former president Olusegun Obasanjo hosted Prof. Saka Matemilola, the recently appointed Olowu of the Owu kingdom, at his former home in Ita-Iyalode, the capital of Ogun state.

The monarch was guaranteed Obasanjo’s backing and that of the sons and daughters of the Owu kingdom by the Balogun of that kingdom.

Last Wednesday, the state government gave its approval to Matemilola’s appointment as the new Olowu.

Seven princes vied for the vacant seat of the Olowu after the death of the late Oba Adegboyega Dosumu, who passed away on December 12, 2021. The Owu kingmakers, led by Obasanjo, screened them all.

Matemilola’s encounter with Obasanjo and other high chiefs marked the beginning of his six-month-long customary ceremonies.

“When the late king passed away, the Owu kingdom performed what had never been done in the Owu kingdom as Christians, Muslims, and traditionalists united to commemorate the life of the late monarch,” Obasanjo stated as he introduced the new king to the chiefs and other people.

“We (the kingmakers) accomplished what we were supposed to do, and while some people were not pleased with us, we thank God that the state government confirmed his nomination after the kingmakers finished their task.”

“This is the quickest that a new king has taken the throne after our departed monarch. Our tradition and culture have been preserved, so we must prevent their extinction.

As the new Olowu of Owu kingdom, “I want to assure you (Matemilola) of my unwavering support and the support of the entire boys and girls of Owu kingdom.”

Leaders from the Christian, Muslim, and traditional faiths prayed to God on behalf of the new king.