…as Olubadan, Oluwo, other monarchs grace installation ceremony
The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade I, on Saturday formally installed former Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of First Bank of Nigeria, Dr Adesola Kazeem Adeduntan, as the new Balogun of Oyo.
- …as Olubadan, Oluwo, other monarchs grace installation ceremony
- ALSO READ: Adeduntan succeeds Olunloyo as Balogun of Oyo; installation fixed for Sept 5
The ceremony, held at the ancient Alaafin’s Palace, Oyo, attracted the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi, other traditional rulers, government officials and indigenes from across Yorubaland.
Ladoja’s visit was significant as it marked the first time the Olubadan would visit Oyo since the coronation of Oba Owoade as the Alaafin, providing an opportunity for the two prominent traditional rulers to appear together publicly and reinforce the unity of traditional institutions in the state.
The Balogun title is one of the most revered and senior traditional offices in the old Oyo Empire. Historically, it designated a war leader or commander responsible for leading soldiers to defend the kingdom, secure its borders and organise community defence.
Following the fall of the old Oyo Empire, the title remained a high-ranking traditional honour reserved for distinguished public figures and leaders who exemplify courage, service and leadership.
Adeduntan, an indigene of Ibadan, is widely recognised for his role in transforming First Bank into a digital-driven institution during his nine-year tenure as GMD/CEO, during which the bank’s customer base grew from 10 million to more than 42 million.
ALSO READ: Adeduntan succeeds Olunloyo as Balogun of Oyo; installation fixed for Sept 5
He currently serves as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Abiola Ajimobi Technical University, Ibadan, and is also the Apesin Ola of Ibadanland.
Speaking at the ceremony, Oba Owoade described the new Balogun as a complete gentleman with a heart of gold who combines refined manners with kindness, humility and genuine concern for others.
The Alaafin noted that he had never seen a top professional with so many innovative ideas and unique thinking in advancing the banking sector.
Oba Owoade urged Adeduntan to uphold the values of the institution and deploy his experience towards the development, peace and unity of the Oyo Kingdom.
“As a renowned Banker with over three decades of experience, you are indeed a man of conscience being guided by an internal moral compass, acting with integrity, empathy, and a strong sense of responsibility toward others rather than mere self-interest.
“You are defined by your commitment to truth, and dedication to service. As a man of integrity and authenticity, you live in alignment with your values, ensuring that your actions match your words. You consider the impact of your decisions on others and act with kindness and understanding,” he added.
Responding, the new Balogun of Oyo described the Alaafin as a dependable and stabilising monarch who provides a calming force and builds deep personal bonds with the people.
He pledged to serve with humility, integrity and commitment to the progress of Oyo and Yorubaland.
“Alaafin is kind, social, giving, and known for being able to resolve conflicts peacefully. He works to avoid having people feel uncomfortable or anxious. He is a dynamic Ruler,” Dr Adeduntan said.
As part of the ceremony, the wife of the new Balogun, Chief Mrs Adenike Adeduntan, was installed as the Yeye Balogun of Oyo by the Alaafin’s Queen Consort, Ayaba Abiwunmi.
Adeduntan succeeds the late Dr Victor Olunloyo, former Governor of the old Oyo State, who held the title with distinction.
In a congratulatory message, President Bola Tinubu described the installation as a call to greater service and urged Adeduntan to promote peace, development and the preservation of cultural heritage.
The ceremony, initially scheduled for July 18, was postponed as a mark of honour to victims of the Oriire abduction.
Other dignitaries at the event included the Akogun of Egbaland, High Chief Adebayo Shoyoye; the Ward Onikoyi of Yorubaland, High Chief Tomori Williams; the Statistician-General of the Federation, Prince Semiu Adeyemi Adeniran; and renowned architect, Bayo Ajisafe, among others.