Emure-Ekiti | July 29, 2025
In a landmark moment for the Emure Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Oba James Babatunde Ajiboye, Otutubiosun I, Ajigbotulu, the Elemure of Emure-Ekiti, on Tuesday made his first official appearance at the Ekiti State Council of Obas meeting. The event marked a significant milestone in his reign and a new chapter in the kingdom’s traditional leadership engagement at the state level.
The newly installed monarch, who was formally presented with the staff of office just days ago by the Executive Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, was warmly received at the council chamber by an assembly of eminent traditional rulers from across the state. As a First-Class Oba, Oba Ajiboye was accorded full ceremonial honours and welcomed with deep respect, signifying his esteemed position within the traditional governance architecture of Ekiti.
The Council of Obas meeting, which is a statutory gathering of royal fathers across the state, deliberated on critical issues affecting Ekiti communities. Discussions ranged from grassroots development, security concerns, cultural preservation, rural infrastructure, to the strengthening of synergy between the traditional institution and state government. Oba Ajiboye’s presence was seen as a timely addition, bringing fresh insight and renewed commitment from the Emure Kingdom.
His Royal Majesty’s participation is not only symbolic of his ascendancy but also signals his readiness to bring Emure-Ekiti’s voice to the state’s decision-making table. As an active member of the council, Oba Ajiboye now has the platform to present the developmental needs of his people, advocate for improved services, and ensure that the interests of Emure-Ekiti are articulated at the highest level of traditional deliberations.
While addressing the gathering, Oba Ajiboye reaffirmed his unwavering dedication to peace, progress, and prosperity in Emure and across Ekiti State. He described the council as “a sacred and strategic forum for wisdom-sharing, collaborative leadership, and collective action,” adding that traditional rulers must remain active custodians of culture while embracing their evolving roles in governance and community development.
“Emure-Ekiti is ready to work hand-in-hand with the state government and fellow monarchs to achieve a more secure, united, and prosperous Ekiti. Our people are watching, and our ancestors are listening. We must lead with courage, compassion and vision,” the monarch said.
Oba Ajiboye’s entry into the council has been widely hailed as a welcome development, especially among traditionalists and community leaders, who believe his youthfulness, exposure and grassroots engagement will serve the council well.
Observers note that this development reinforces the importance of traditional institutions in modern governance. As moral compasses and community custodians, monarchs like Oba Ajiboye are seen not just as cultural icons, but as development catalysts whose voices must be amplified in matters of security, education, health and youth empowerment.
The meeting concluded with a renewed pledge by all Obas present to continue fostering unity and collaborating with relevant government organs to uplift the fortunes of Ekiti State.
As the Elemure settles into his responsibilities, the people of Emure and indeed the entire state look forward to a reign marked by wisdom, strategic partnerships, and transformative leadership.
