Sanwo-Olu, Ambode, Gbajabiamila Shower Accolades On Oba Ogunsanwo’s Royal Legacy

Oba Ogunsanwo Celebrated by Top Dignitaries as Alara of Ilara Marks Five Years on the Throne

Top government functionaries, revered monarchs, and distinguished Nigerians have showered glowing tributes on the Alara of Ilara Kingdom, Epe, Lagos State, Oba (Dr.) Olufolarin Olukayode Ogunsanwo (Telade IV), in celebration of his fifth coronation anniversary.

The three-day celebration, which began on Friday, featured a vibrant street parade, Jumat service, commemorative football match, empowerment programme, and free medical outreach for residents of the Ilara community.

According to iReporter Online, the well-attended festivities reflect the monarch’s wide influence and the affection he commands across various strata of society.

In a heartfelt goodwill message, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu described Oba Ogunsanwo’s reign as both impactful and transformative.

“In just five years, Your Majesty’s reign has left a lasting imprint on Ilara and the wider Epe division.

You have led with wisdom, dignity, and a genuine devotion to your people—championing peace, fostering unity, and preserving the proud traditions of Ilara while embracing growth and development.”

Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, in his own tribute, praised the monarch for ushering in “unprecedented development and prosperity” through hard work and inclusive leadership.

Former Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, also applauded the Alara, citing his notable contributions during public service and during Ambode’s own tenure.

“Your leadership in the public sector and now as a traditional ruler places you in a unique position of respect. Your role as the South-West Coordinator of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria speaks volumes of your national standing,” he stated.

Further acknowledging his legacy, Dr. Ayodele Subair, Executive Chairman of the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) and Oba Ogunsanwo’s successor at the tax agency, said the monarch’s former colleagues proudly celebrate his achievements.

“Your family at LIRS joins the good people of Ilara and Lagos in honouring your legacy and prays for continued excellence in the years ahead.”

A host of other dignitaries, including Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Lagos State Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, and Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, also sent in letters of commendation.

According to iReporter Online, the high-profile recognitions reflect not only Oba Ogunsanwo’s local influence but his growing national and cultural relevance.

Royal fathers were also not left out in honouring the Alara. The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, wrote a moving tribute, calling the monarch’s reign one of peace, unity, and prosperity.

“As Arole Oduduwa, I celebrate your enduring reign and pray that it continues to inspire future generations towards selfless leadership and the preservation of our traditions,” he noted.

Similarly, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammed Sa’ad Abubakar, and the Sarkin Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, praised the monarch for his unwavering commitment to service and the wellbeing of his people.

Tributes also came in from Dr. Tunji Alausa, Minister of Education; Senator Gbenga Daniel; His Majesty, Dr. Benjamin Ijechukwu (Dein of Agbor); Oba Babatunde Ajayi (Akarigbo of Remoland); HRH Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar (Etsu Nupe), and Mallam Haruna Yahaya, PhD, President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), among others.

According to iReporter Online, one of the main highlights of the anniversary celebration is scheduled for Saturday, August 16, at the Alara’s Palace in Ilara, where honorary chieftaincy titles will be conferred on seven distinguished individuals and couples for their outstanding contributions to the development of the kingdom.

List of Honourees:

• Prof. John Oladapo Obafunwa – Balogun of Ilara

• Surveyor Jelili Kolawole Olayemi – Olotu of Ilara

• Prof. Kemi Pinhero – Baamofin of Ilara

• Amb. Oluwatoyin Lawal & Mrs. Abiodun Lawal – Bobagunwa & Yeye Bobagunwa of Ilara

• Dr. Olanrewaju Obasa – Otunba Bobaseye of Ilara

• Chief Akinyele Oladeji & Mrs. Toyin Oladeji – Ashipa & Yeye Ashipa of Ilara

• Barr. Rotimi Edu & Mrs. Olayemi Edu – Otunba Jokotade & Yeye Otunba Jokotade of Ilara

The fifth coronation anniversary will conclude on Sunday, August 17, with a thanksgiving service at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ilara-Epe, followed by a royal banquet in honour of a monarch widely regarded as a symbol of unity, cultural pride, and developmental progress.

”IREPORTER REPORTS”