Glitz, Culture as Amosun’s Wife Bags Yeye Moremi Oodua Title, Marks 60th Birthday in Ile-Ife

The ancient city of Ile-Ife came alive on Saturday as Chief Mrs. Olufunso Amosun, wife of former Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, was conferred with the revered title of Yeye Moremi Oodua by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi.

The colourful cultural ceremony, which coincided with her 60th birthday, was held in recognition of her enduring virtues of service, courage, and philanthropy—qualities closely associated with the legendary Moremi Ajasoro of Ife.

The event attracted an array of distinguished personalities from across the country. Among them were Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde; and former governors Kayode Fayemi, Babatunde Fashola, and Gbenga Daniel.

Also in attendance were former senators, including Lanre Tejuoso and Lekan Mustapha, as well as the 2023 Ogun State governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Ladi Adebutu. They were joined by captains of industry as well as current and former First Ladies from across the country.

A rich display of traditional authority was also evident, with several royal fathers in attendance, including the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo; the Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba Saka Matemilola; the Olofa of Ofa; the Ataoja of Osogbo; and the Emir of Borgu, among others.

Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Makinde commended Mrs. Amosun for exemplifying the virtues of Queen Moremi through her life of service and commitment to humanity.

In his remarks, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Ogunwusi, noted that the honouree has consistently demonstrated unwavering dedication to the ideals represented by Moremi, as well as to the cultural heritage and development of Ile-Ife.

Similarly, the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Gbadebo, praised her gentle disposition and philanthropic spirit, describing her as a dependable partner whose steadfast support contributed significantly to her husband’s successful tenure in public service.

In her response, the newly installed Yeye Moremi Oodua expressed profound gratitude to the Ooni for the honour, describing the title as both humbling and inspiring. She pledged to continue upholding the enduring values of courage, sacrifice, and service embodied by Queen Moremi.

A grand reception was later held at Ojaja Resort, where Abike Dabiri-Erewa delivered a happy birthday message on behalf of the First Lady of Nigeria, Oluremi Tinubu.

Guests were treated to a night of rich musical performances by legendary juju icons Ebenezer Obey and King Sunny Ade, alongside Sefiu Alao and other entertainers, adding glamour to an already historic and memorable occasion.