Traditional installation rites have commenced for Prince Gbadebo Stephen Adeusi Aladerotohun, the Oloba-elect of Obaile in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State, with the Elemo of Obaile, High Chief Gbemisayo Oluwatimilehin, calling for unity and reconciliation among members of the community.
The ceremony began with members of the Elegbe chieftaincy group beating the incoming monarch with canes while chanting “Ole”, in accordance with the community’s traditional practices.
The Oloba-elect was subsequently brought from a farm at Okeligun to the residence of High Chief Olusola Olugbogi, the Agbaakin of Obaile.
At the residence, the Elemo of Obaile, High Chief Gbemisayo Oluwatimilehin, formally handed him over to members of the Elegbe group as part of the traditional initiation process.
During the ceremony, the Oloba-elect was made to serve palm wine to members of the group, in keeping with the customs and traditions governing the installation process.
Membership of the Elegbe chieftaincy group is a traditional requirement for anyone aspiring to ascend the Oloba throne.
The Oloba-elect is expected to continue the traditional rite known as Emuba for seven days, after which he will host Ajo Elegbe. He will subsequently commence the Arapon festival, a nine-day period of feasting and merrymaking during which roasted yams are served.
Speaking on the significance of the ongoing process, the Elemo urged the people of Obaile to remain united and support the installation of the new monarch.
He specifically appealed to those who contested against Prince Adeusi Aladerotohun to put aside their differences and join hands with him in moving the community forward.
The Elemo also urged the Oloba-elect to extend a hand of fellowship to those who contested against him, stressing the need for inclusiveness and reconciliation in the interest of peace and development.
The commencement of the rites follows the death of the former Oloba, Oba Joseph Oluwadare Agunbiade, also known as Otutubiotun I, who passed away on May 9, 2025.
Following the succession process, Prince Adeusi Aladerotohun was selected by the kingmakers on September 19, 2026, while the Ondo State Government approved his appointment on October 24, 2026.
Born on January 6, 1965, Prince Adeusi Aladerotohun is a member of the Elegbeje-Ogboo Ruling House of the Orioge Dynasty Royal Family of Obaile and a descendant of the royal lineage of HRH Aladetoye Orioge I.
He began his education at St. John’s Primary School, Obaile, before proceeding to Ejtoba High School, also in Obaile.
He later pursued further studies in the United Kingdom, obtaining a Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care from Holistic Training Centre, London, between 2012 and 2013; an HND in Health and Social Care Management from St. Patrick’s College, Tower Hill, London, between 2013 and 2015; and a Bachelor of Science degree in Health and Social Care from the University of Sunderland between 2019 and 2020.
His professional experience spans security services, facilities management, care coordination and community engagement. He has worked with organisations including Goldman Sachs International, Bank of Tokyo, Modern Depot/London Underground, Global House Facilities Management and Enigma Group.
He has also been involved in community leadership and engagement through St. Faith Church of England.
The Oloba-elect has expressed a commitment to preserving the customs and traditions of Obaile while deploying his leadership experience and exposure to community service and development to promote a peaceful and prosperous community.
