Osun SSG, Teslim Igbalaye’s Historic Moment

On December 21, 2024, amidst pomp and pageantry, the ancient city of Osogbo witnessed a historic moment as Hon. Teslim Adekunle Igbalaye, the Secretary to the Osun State Government, was installed as the new Bobagunwa of Osogbo. The grand occasion took place at the Ataoja’s palace, with His Royal Majesty, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji (Larooye II), the Ataoja of Osogbo, presiding over the ceremony. Igbalaye succeeded his late father, Alhaji Abdulrasheed Igbalaye, who was the pioneer Bobagunwa of Osogbo.

The installation ceremony drew a massive crowd, as people from far and near gathered to witness the epoch event, including dignitaries, traditional leaders, and well-wishers.

During the ceremony, Oba Oyetunji emphasised the sacredness of the Bobagunwa title, urging the new Bobagunwa to hold the title in high esteem. He maintained that the responsibility entrusted to Igbalaye must never be taken lightly and that he must never betray the trust placed in him, either by the king or the people of Osogbo.

In response, Igbalaye expressed his deep commitment to serving Osogbo with diligence and dedication. He assured the Ataoja and the people of Osogbo that he would work tirelessly to uphold the values and traditions of the city, while at the same time fostering further development and unity among its people. Igbalaye also pledged to honour the legacy of his late father, whose contributions to Osogbo and Osun State in general are still fondly remembered today.

In his short address, Governor Ademola Adeleke thanked the Ataoja of Osogbo for deeming Igbalaye worthy of the prestigious title. He expressed his gratitude on behalf of the entire government of Osun State, emphasizing that Osogbo has been a steadfast supporter of his administration from day one. His appreciation underscored the significant role the city of Osogbo continues to play in the governance and development of the state.