Ado-Ekiti is set to witness a historic five-day festivity as the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe Aladesanmi III, celebrates his 80th birthday alongside his 35th coronation anniversary. The events will run from November 19 to 23, featuring a rich blend of cultural, religious, and academic programmes.
Chairman of the Organising Committee and President of Ado Progressive Union, Engr. Prince Segun Famuagun, unveiled the line up programmes during a press briefing at the Ewi’s Palace in Ado-Ekiti.
He noted that preparations, which began in February, have reached the peak, describing the dual celebrations as a source of pride to Ado-Ekiti sons and daughters at home and in the diaspora.
The festivities will commence on Wednesday with traditional homage as various quarters of Ado-Ekiti pay tribute to the monarch. Colourful processions, music, and cultural displays will begin at 9:00 a.m., while the day’s activities will conclude with the finals of the anniversary football competition at Christ’s School field by 4:00 p.m.
On Thursday, the palace will host a major colloquium themed “Celebrating Heritage and Tradition.” The keynote address will be delivered by Prof. Akindele Adetoye of Ekiti State University. Discussions will focus on the historical evolution of Ado-Ekiti, the monarch’s impact on community development, and the relevance of royalty in contemporary society. A scholarship and award ceremony for brilliant but indigent students will also take place.
Friday’s programme includes a special Jumat service at the Central Mosque by 12:00 p.m., followed by a drama performance and photo and art exhibitions at the palace. The drama will spotlight the Ewi’s life, leadership, and contributions.
According to Prince Famuagun, Saturday will feature the grand public presentation of Kabiyesi’s new book as well as the conferment of chieftaincy titles on distinguished sons and daughters of Ado-Ekiti. The book will be reviewed by Prof. Yusuf Ali (SAN), with Dr. Tunji Olowolafe as the chief launcher. Former Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, and Venite University founder, Hon. Dapo Kolawole, will serve as co-launchers.
The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, will chair the event, while the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, will serve as the royal father of the day.
The celebration will climax on Sunday with 80th birthday thanksgiving service at Emmanuel Cathedral, Okesa, at 10:00 a.m., to be followed by a grand reception at the palace.
Prince Famuagun expressed gratitude to donors, stakeholders, and well-wishers for their massive support, commending their confidence in the transparency and developmental vision of the Ado monarchy.
He assured that adequate security and crowd-management measures have been put in place, including temporary access routes to ease vehicular movement despite ongoing construction in parts of the city.