Olota of Ota Pledges to Transform Ancient Town into Model City
The Olota of Ota, Oba Adeyemi Kabir Obalanlege, has reaffirmed his commitment to transforming Ota into an enviable city within Awori land and across Nigeria.
The monarch made this known during an interactive session with members of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, Ogun West Independent Chapel, held at his palace in Ota, Ogun State.
Speaking during the engagement, Oba Obalanlege disclosed that he never envisaged becoming a traditional ruler, noting that his life ambition had been rooted in academics rather than royalty.
“I never thought I would become a king in my lifetime,” he said.
The Olota explained that he was initially reluctant to join the race for the throne, having thrown his support behind his uncle, Keke Obalanlege of the Javy Royal family, who had earlier indicated interest in the stool.
According to him, persistent pressure from family members, who believed in his leadership capacity, eventually compelled him to reconsider his position. He said he later approached his uncle, alongside family members, to declare his intention to contest—a move that was accepted.
The monarch further revealed that his wife initially opposed his emergence as king, prompting him to temporarily relocate to the United Kingdom, where he had secured employment, in a bid to avoid the responsibility.
He, however, noted that his wife later withdrew her opposition after being persuaded by prevailing traditional beliefs surrounding the consequences of rejecting a royal call.
Oba Obalanlege emphasized that his decision to accept the throne was driven by a desire to serve his people and contribute meaningfully to the development of Ota.
He stressed that his primary focus as Olota is to ensure good governance, promote development, and reposition the ancient town as a modern and attractive urban centre.
“My decisions are geared towards making Ota an enviable city and ensuring that I rule well,” he stated.
Highlighting the values of service and merit within traditional institutions, the monarch referenced the installation of Gbenga Oso, a native of Tigbo-Ota, as the Asiwaju of Boba Selu of Ota, as well as his recognition as Asiwaju Bobaselu of Owu land. He noted that the honour was not based on wealth, but on Oso’s demonstrated magnanimity and his consistent fulfilment of responsibilities both at home and in the diaspora.
The monarch used the example to underscore the importance of selfless service, integrity, and community impact as the true criteria for honour and leadership.
Oba Obalanlege, who ascended the throne as Ekun II, is widely regarded as part of a new generation of traditional rulers bringing academic experience and progressive ideas into the institution of monarchy.
He reiterated his commitment to fostering unity, driving development, and preserving the cultural heritage of Ota while embracing modernity.
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