Ìṣẹ-Ekiti Celebrates 25 Years of Purposeful Leadership as Arinjale Marks Coronation Anniversary

The ancient town of Ìṣẹ-Ekiti, Ekiti State, is set to commemorate the 25th coronation anniversary of its revered traditional ruler, His Royal Majesty, Oba Adetunji Ayodele David Ajayi (PhD, MON, JP.), the Arinjale of Ìṣẹ-Ekiti.

The landmark anniversary celebrates a quarter of a century of traditional leadership, cultural preservation, community service and commitment to the peace and progress of Ìṣẹ-Ekiti.

Since ascending the throne, Oba Adetunji Ayodele David Ajayi has remained a symbol of unity and stability, providing royal guidance and moral leadership while working with community stakeholders, traditional institutions, religious leaders, indigenes and development partners to advance the interests of the town.

His reign has reflected a thoughtful balance between the preservation of the customs and cultural identity of Ìṣẹ-Ekiti and the need to embrace education, development, peaceful coexistence and opportunities for younger generations.

Over the past 25 years, the Arinjale has continued to promote harmony among the people, strengthen the dignity of the traditional institution and encourage sons and daughters of Ìṣẹ-Ekiti, both at home and in the diaspora, to contribute meaningfully to the growth of their ancestral community.

The anniversary is therefore more than a celebration of longevity on the throne. It is an opportunity for the people of Ìṣẹ-Ekiti to reflect on the Kabiyesi’s years of service, honour his contributions and renew their collective commitment to the future of the town.

As part of activities marking the anniversary, a special Praise Day will be held on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at the Arinjale Palace, Ìṣẹ-Ekiti.

The event will bring together members of the royal family, traditional chiefs, community leaders, government representatives, religious leaders, guests, indigenes and well-wishers to give thanks to God for the life, health and reign of the monarch.

The Praise Day will feature prominent gospel ministers, including Glorious Twins, Ojo Abimbola Elizabeth and Apostle Elijah Akintunde. Other ministers expected at the celebration include Evangelist Sefunmi Oluwole, Evangelist Kikelomo Olaiya, Evangelist Rachel Olajiga and the Ìṣẹ Mass Choir.

The celebration is expected to be a colourful gathering that reflects the deep cultural heritage, communal spirit and religious values of the people of Ìṣẹ-Ekiti.

Speaking ahead of the anniversary, the Chairman of the organising committee, Dr Johnson Idowu, described Oba Ajayi’s 25 years on the throne as a significant chapter in the history of Ìṣẹ-Ekiti.

He noted that the monarch has served with wisdom, dignity and a deep sense of responsibility, remaining accessible to his people and consistently advocating peace, cooperation and sustainable community development.

According to him, the anniversary will also provide an opportunity for younger generations to better appreciate the history of the town, the importance of the traditional institution and the role of the monarch in preserving the identity and values of the people.

He added that Oba Ajayi’s reign has strengthened the relationship between the palace and the community, while reinforcing the palace as a respected centre for dialogue, cultural continuity and communal unity.

Traditional rulers remain important custodians of history, customs and community values across Nigeria. Beyond their ceremonial responsibilities, they often serve as mediators, advisers, cultural ambassadors and rallying points for local development.

For the people of Ìṣẹ-Ekiti, the Arinjale’s silver jubilee is a celebration of service, resilience and continuity. It is also a moment to honour a monarch whose leadership has helped sustain peace and strengthen the shared identity of the community.

The organising committee has called on indigenes, residents, friends of Ìṣẹ-Ekiti and well-wishers from within and outside Ekiti State to participate in the celebration and join the community in honouring the Kabiyesi.

As Oba Adetunji Ayodele David Ajayi marks 25 years on the throne of his forefathers, the people of Ìṣẹ-Ekiti celebrate not only the passage of time but also a legacy of leadership, cultural pride and devotion to the wellbeing of the community.

The anniversary is expected to leave a lasting message of unity, gratitude and renewed hope for the continued progress of Ìṣẹ-Ekiti under the royal leadership of the Arinjale.

God bless His Royal Majesty, the Arinjale of Ise-Ekiti.
God bless the Ise Kingdom.
God bless Ekiti State.

God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.