Lifestyle
PHOTOS: Oba Ademuagun Adesida II, The First Oba Who Refused to Stand for a Governor in Nigeria
Oba Ademuagun Adesida II was installed as the Deji of Akure on October 28, 1957. That same year, he was inducted into the Western House of Chiefs, popularly known as “Ipade L’Obaloba.”
During his very first attendance at the House of Chiefs meeting, an unforgettable event occurred—one that would forever distinguish him as a monarch of courage and dignity.
All traditional rulers from the Western Region were present, including the Premier, Chief Obafemi Awolowo. From the Ondo Province, five Obas were in attendance: the Deji of Akure, Olowo of Owo, Osemawe of Ondo, Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, and Elekole of Ikole.
As the Premier entered the chamber, all the Obas rose to their feet in respect—except Oba Ademuagun Adesida II, Ekun oko Eyesorun. His calm refusal to stand caught everyone’s attention.
Chief Awolowo, surprised by this act, inquired who the seated monarch was. The Deji replied firmly:
> “I am the Deji of Akureland, Ademuagun Adesida II.”
Awolowo questioned his audacity, to which the Deji responded with regal composure:
> “Is it right for elder monarchs like the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adesoji Aderemi, or the Alaafin Ladigbolu to stand for you? When we studied law in London, did you ever see anyone enter a hall and the Queen stand for them? Even in Nigeria, though our system differs, respect must still be given to whom it is due.
We inherited our thrones from our forefathers—only death can remove us. You, however, were chosen by the people’s thumb, and through that same thumb, you will be removed. I, Ademuagun, will never stand for you.”
The other Obas, including Oba Akenzua of Benin, were stunned into silence. A heated exchange followed, during which Oba Ademuagun removed his crown, placed it before Awolowo, and said:
> “If you believe you deserve the honour you seek, place this crown on your head.”
Before Awolowo could respond, the Deji rose and left the meeting hall. Some omodeowas (palace aides) quickly retrieved the crown and followed their king out.
The confrontation caused great tension between the Deji and the Premier, but years later, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe intervened and reconciled both men in Akure.
Many believe Oba Ademuagun’s boldness stemmed from his training as a lawyer—educated and self-assured, he understood both the law of men and the dignity of kingship.
His wife, Olori Asake Adebola Adesida, witnessed the event, and Regent Adebusola Alice Adesida later confirmed it.
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Respect to Oba Ademuagun Adesida II — the lion of Akureland, who stood firm before power and upheld the honour of the crown.
Omo Owa, Omo Ekun Laafin. Iku pa ni han da’re.
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