By abiodun KOMOLAFE

Last weekend, the Elegboro of Ijebu-Jesa, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Engr.) Oba Moses Oluwafemi Agunsoye, clocked 69 years on this earth.

Born on January 24, 1957, Oba Agunsoye traded a thirty-five-year career at the Federal Ministry of Industry for the throne of his forefathers in 2017. Bringing the discipline of a mechanical engineer and the seasoned perspective of a former Director to his reign, Kabiyesi has quietly transformed our ‘Native Nazareth’ through steady, practical leadership.

Perhaps his greatest achievement, however, is the peace he has maintained. His ascension came without the bitter disputes that often fracture communities in Yorubaland. Instead, he has occupied the throne with a quiet dignity and a character that remains entirely beyond reproach.

At 69, rather than merely acting as a custodian of the past, Oba Agunsoye has brought fastidiousness, professionalism and a new sense of peace and progress to the land of his forefathers. He has successfully united the Council of Obas across Oriade Local Government, Ijesa North, and the wider Ijesaland, ensuring stability for all. Under his leadership, the town’s landscape has transformed with the construction of a new Palace, several modern shopping complexes, and new lock-up shops at the Ijebu-Jesa International Market.

Beyond infrastructure, he has influenced the establishment of the NSCDC Area Command and an FRSC Special Unit to improve local security. His reign has also re-energized our people, leading to the rise of active groups like the Ijebu-Jesa Recreation Club, Heritage Club, and their diaspora chapters in the US and UK, all working together for the town’s growth.

By rallying the community around self-help projects like solar boreholes and scholarships, he has transformed the town into a burgeoning business hub. His is a leadership rooted in integrity and humility – a crown defined not by its gold, but by the tangible progress of his people.

Our revered monarch has made a very good start! As he enters his 70th year, may the Almighty God, the King of Kings, continue to fortify His Royal Majesty, Oba Moses Olúwáfémi Agúnsóyè with the strength and divine health to lead Ijebu-Jesa for many more years!

May Kabiyesi’s years be long, his path be clear, and the Agunsoye lineage continue to flourish under the gaze of the Most High!

K’ádé pé lórí, kí bàtà pé lésè. Kí esin oba je’ko pé!

Yèé ló ye ó, Oba ria!

May the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world, grant us peace in Nigeria!

•Komolafe can be reached via e-mail: ijebujesa@yahoo.co.uk; Mobile: 08033614419 SMS only.

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