Olowu-elect begins seclusion rites at Obasanjo’s Abeokuta residence

By Kolawole Olayinka, Abeokuta

The Olowu-elect, Oba Saka Matemilola will begin his seclusion rites at the Ita-Eko residence of former President, Chief Olusegun Aremu Obasanjo in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

This was announced after the official presentation of the new Olowu to the entire sons and daughters of Owu kingdom before moving to where he will observe a mandatory seclusion (Ipebi).

Chief Obasanjo, who is the Balogun of Owu, while speaking at the official presentation, thanked the Ogun State government for approving the selection of Matemilola as the successor of the late Oba Adegboyega Dosumu, who joined his ancestors last December.

He equally thanked the kingmakers for completing their assignments on time in filling the vacant seat of the Owu stool.
“In our history, this is the first time a new king will be filling a vacant seat within a short period. We have to preserve our culture. Culture is the totality of our existence, and we must not allow it to go into extinction. We (kingmakers) did what we are supposed to do. The state government approved his appointment.

“I want to assure you (Matemilola) of my unalloyed support and the support of the entire sons and daughters of Owu kingdom in your journey as the new Olowu of Owu kingdom,” Obasanjo said.

The former president urged chiefs and other Owu indigenes as well as residents not to disturb the new traditional ruler during his seclusion period.

He added that Matemilola is a young and energetic Oba.

“He is educated, he is popular and has connection within and outside the country. And he will use his connection and experience to fast tract the development of our domain,” Obasanjo added.

Osi Owu, Chief Niyi Adegbenro, while speaking at the ceremony expressed joy at the emergence and presentation of Matemilola as the next monarch of Owu kingdom, expressing optimism that his reign will further uplift the community to greater height.