The ancient city of Ile-Ife stood still in splendour and tradition on Saturday as Chief Mrs. Olufunso Amosun, wife of former Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, was formally installed as Yeye Moremi Oodua by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi.
The ceremony, rich in cultural symbolism and royal pageantry, coincided with her 60th birthday, transforming the historic town into a convergence of culture, honour, and celebration. The conferment recognised her enduring commitment to service, compassion, and philanthropy—virtues deeply rooted in the legacy of the legendary Moremi Ajasoro.
Dignitaries from across Nigeria gathered to witness the moment, including Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde; and former governors Kayode Fayemi, Babatunde Fashola, and Gbenga Daniel.
Also present were political leaders, business figures, and prominent Nigerians, including former senators such as Lanre Tejuoso and Lekan Mustapha, alongside the 2023 Ogun State governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Ladi Adebutu.
The gathering also reflected strong traditional presence, with revered monarchs such as the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo; the Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba Saka Matemilola; the Ataoja of Osogbo; the Olofa of Ofa; and the Emir of Borgu, among others, lending royal dignity to the occasion.
In his remarks, Governor Makinde described the honouree as a true reflection of the ideals of Queen Moremi, commending her for a life marked by selflessness and dedication to humanity. Similarly, the Ooni of Ife noted that Mrs. Amosun’s lifestyle embodies the courage, sacrifice, and cultural pride associated with the revered title.
The Alake of Egbaland also extolled her virtues, highlighting her humility and steadfast support for her husband during his time in office, which he said contributed meaningfully to governance and public service.
In her acceptance speech, the newly installed Yeye Moremi Oodua expressed deep gratitude for the honour, describing it as both humbling and a call to greater service. She pledged to continue promoting the values of integrity, courage, and compassion that define the Moremi legacy.
The celebration continued with a grand reception at Ojaja Resort, where goodwill messages poured in, including one delivered by Abike Dabiri-Erewa on behalf of the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu.
Guests were later treated to a night of music and entertainment, with performances by legendary artistes Ebenezer Obey and King Sunny Ade, alongside Sefiu Alao, bringing a fitting close to a day that blended royalty, culture, and celebration in historic fashion.
