Rise above tradition, redefine leadership, Ojudu charges Alaafin

A former Special Adviser to former President Muhammadu Buhari, Senator Babafemi Ojudu, on Tuesday, urged the Alaafin of Oyo, Prince Akeem Owoade, to rise above mere tradition and provide proactive leadership that will position him as a builder of institutions, promoter of knowledge, and catalyst for progress across Oyo Town and beyond.

Ojudu tasked the new Alaafin to spearhead a renaissance of Yoruba heritage, characterised by dignity, knowledge, unparalleled public service, and genuine development. He emphasised the need to avoid leaving the responsibility of restoring these values solely to politicians, ensuring Yorubaland remains a beacon of excellence.

Lamenting the scarcity of genuine leadership that prioritises collective good over personal gain in the country, Ojudu made the call during his speech titled: “From Ceremonial to Transformational: Redefining the Role of Oba in Yoruba Progress”, delivered at the 60th Anniversary of Ladigbolu Grammar School, Oyo.

He congratulated the new Alaafin, praising his impressive record of achievements overseas and expressing confidence in his ability to lead Oyo to new heights.

The event, organised by the Old Students’ Association executives led by Pastor Mrs Olufunmilayo Ojoawo (President General), was held in honour of the school’s founder, the late Chief Moses Ogunmola, Otun of Oyo. Chief Ogunmola built the school in 1965 on land allocated to him by the then Alaafin Bello Gbadegesin Ladigbolu II.

Reflecting on the diminished role of royal fathers, which has become largely ceremonial, Ojudu urged Obas in Yorubaland to embrace the vision of their ancestors, who viewed leadership as a sacred duty to serve the people.

Addressing the Alaafin-designate directly, Ojudu, a distinguished journalist, politician, and advocate for democracy who fought alongside pro-democracy activists against General Sanni Abacha through NADECO, said: “It is your task, Kabiyesi, to lead the renaissance of the Yoruba past—a past defined by dignity, knowledge, unparalleled public service, and genuine development. You must collaborate with the best minds, those who, like Chief Obafemi Awolowo and his co-visionaries—Adekunle Fajuyi, Wole Soyinka, Ayodele Awojobi, Gani Fawehinmi, Tai Solarin, Alao Aka-Basorun, Ojetunji Aboyade, and others—brought honour, dignity, and achievements to the Yoruba race.

“These issues cannot be left to politicians alone. Your leadership and influence are crucial to restoring the values that made Yorubaland a beacon of excellence. We hope to return here in a decade and witness that Kabiyesi has used his technological education and network to establish a world-class industrial institute in this town.”

Ojudu also advised students of Ladigbolu Grammar School and other invited schools to see themselves as future custodians of Yoruba heritage.

He added, “While we speak of the roles of our Obas, you too have a role to play. Take pride in your roots, strive for excellence, and understand that leadership is not limited to those on thrones.”

The event was attended by dignitaries, including Chief (Dr.) Adekunle Ogunmola (former INEC REC, Lagos State, and Chairman of the occasion), former national presidents of the Ladigbolu Old Students’ Association—Mr. Seye Amuzat, Dr. Olabisi Oke; Surv. Moshood Akinwale (Vice President), Mr Wale Ajao (former Student Union President, UNIFE), Segun Oke (former Worldwide President, OAU Alumni Association), as well as Principals of Ladigbolu Schools 1 and 2, Mr. O.T. Ahmed and Mrs. Besede Akinyele, respectively, among others.