Olayiwola Oshunrinade
His Royal Majesty, Oba Ademola Olugbile Folakanmi Makuledoye II, Asoludero I, the Alado of Ado Awaye Kingdom in Iseyin Local Government Area of Oyo State, has asserted that traditional rulers, especially Yoruba Obas, have moved away from fetish practices and embraced modern religions.
In an exclusive interview with Nigerian Panorama, the monarch explained that civilisation has transformed the institution of Obaship, with many rulers now educated and religiously inclined.
“Traditional rulers used to be fetish in the past, but civilisation has changed that. Many of our Obas today are educated elites and deeply grounded in modern religions. By the grace of God, I ascended the throne as a Christian, and I remain so to date,” Oba Folakanmi stated.
The Alado emphasised the importance of granting traditional rulers specific constitutional roles to enhance governance.
Reflecting on his journey, he described it as challenging yet fulfilling, while acknowledging God’s faithfulness in navigating through the mixed experiences.
Speaking on the challenges facing his people, Oba Folakanmi highlighted areas needing urgent government intervention, such as agriculture, tourism, education, and healthcare.
“Some of the challenges facing my people include the lack of substantial government involvement in agriculture and tourism, where we have a comparative advantage, as well as in education and health sectors,” he said.
He acknowledged the government’s contributions, citing the construction of access roads linking Ibadan, Oyo, and Ogbomoso to Ado Awaye, as well as enhanced security and publicity for the Iyake Suspended Lake, the world’s only natural suspended lake.
Additionally, he lauded the establishment of Africa’s only cassava-based sorbitol factory, Psaltery International Ltd, located in Ado Awaye.
While commending the government’s efforts, the Oba noted room for improvement, particularly in empowering royal fathers.
He however, expressed regret that his people have yet to fully align with his Vision for Redemption through Passion for the Development of Ado Awaye Agenda (VRPDA).
“My regret is that my people are yet to fully come on the same page with me regarding my vision for Ado Awaye’s development,” he remarked.
On his relationship with other monarchs,
Oba Folakanmi maintained that he enjoys a cordial relationship with fellow traditional rulers, being a member of the Oke Ogun Council of Obas and Chiefs, Yoruba Obas Forum, and Christian Obas Forum.
The monarch revealed that his typical day revolves around addressing community matters, church and ministry work, and other personal commitments. During his spare time, he engages in prayer walks, reading, writing, and resting.
Oba Ademola Folakanmi ascended the throne on May 21, 2017, ending a 34-year interregnum. His reign follows nearly 200 years after the passing of Oba Makuledoye I, the founder of his ruling house.
