Pomps, Pageantry as High Chief Bankole is Conferred the 1st Aremo of Ketu Land
By Gafar Edun
History was made on Saturday, 29th November 2025, in the ancient Yoruba city of Ketu in the Republic of Benin, as High Chief Adeola Adepegbá Alabi, an illustrious son of Ilara—the historic Yoruba border town between Nigeria and Benin—was installed as the first Aremo Oba of Ketu Kingdom.
The prestigious title was conferred by His Imperial Majesty Oba Akanni Adedunloye Aderomola, the revered monarch of Ketu Land (Akobi Oodua).
Ilara, celebrated for its deep Yoruba heritage and its strategic position as a cultural bridge between Nigeria and Benin, proudly presented one of its distinguished sons for this historic honour. Chief Adepegbá Bankole’s elevation reflects the enduring bond between Ilara and Ketu—two communities united by lineage, tradition, and royal ancestry.
The installation also underscored the significant role of the Oloola of Ilara Land, whose presence symbolized Ilara’s historic connection and unwavering support for the Ketu Kingdom.
The grand ceremony attracted eminent Yoruba royal fathers from both Nigeria and the Republic of Benin, reaffirming the shared heritage that binds Yoruba kingdoms across borders.
Notable attendees included Oba Olusegun James Taiwo FCA, Oliyunku I – Gbadewolu I, Alaale of Moriwi Kingdom, and HRM Oba Isaac Oyero, Ooye of Iwoye Land. The Oloola of the Ilara, Oba Dr. Mutiu Alani Adedimeji Oyede-Lawal Sijuade Adunkunnu I, was represented by Olori Iyabo Yusirat Lawal, alongside the Oloola-in-Council led by Chief Theophilus Ogunrinde, Otunba of Ilara Land, collectively lending dignity and royal solidarity to the occasion.
Adding intellectual and cultural depth to the event was Emeritus Professor Anthony Ijaola Asiwaju, a globally respected scholar of African borderlands and Yoruba history. Several Nigerian artists, including Owolabi Ajasa, Kola Adeyemi, Segun Ogungbe, Bose Aregbesola, Biola Adekunle, and Femi Solaja, enlivened the ceremony with vibrant performances. Musical entertainment was provided by Tope Notical, whose rhythms captivated the audience.
Government representatives in attendance included Hon. Adeleke Salmon (Sonto), former House of Assembly member; Hon. Olusegun Olalotan, APC Party Chairman of Imeko Afon Local Government; and Hon. Wasiu Isiaka, Ogun State Commissioner for Sports and Youth. Prominent dignitaries such as Chief M.A. Bankole were also present.
Notably, Hammed Alao (Deputy), a respected businessman of all time, graced the ceremony, further adding prestige and honour to the historic gathering.
Alhaji Sodiq Memud (AMS), founder of the AMS Foundation, attended as a key supporter and funder of the event, highlighting the critical role of philanthropy in preserving Yoruba cultural heritage. Business interests were further represented by Alhaji Saruk, a leading tycoon from the Benin Republic.
The ceremony was meticulously organized under the leadership of Elite Mathew Olanrewaju, Chairman of the Planning Committee, alongside Hon. Kugbakin Olusola, whose coordination ensured a seamless and memorable occasion.
In his remarks, Oba Rotimi Mulero, Aboro of Ibeseland, described the conferment as a well-deserved recognition of Chief Adepegbá Bankole’s contributions to the development and wellbeing of Ketu Land. He emphasized that the title of Aremo Oba is not only an honour but also a call to deepen service and commitment to the Ketu community.
The historic Ketu Kingdom, revered as the seat of Odùduwà’s first son, came alive with rich cultural displays, traditional rites, and heartfelt expressions of unity. Chief Adepegbá Bankole’s installation as the first Aremo Oba of Ketu Kingdom marks a new chapter in Ketu leadership, cross-border unity, and the preservation of royal heritage. It stands as a monumental testament to the resilience, pride, and continuity of Yoruba culture and tradition.
