Egba Royal Majesties
The Alake of Egbaland
Oba Dr. Michael Aremu Adedotun Gbadebo, CFR
Custodian of Egba Heritage and Paramount Ruler of Abeokuta
The Alake of Egbaland is the paramount traditional ruler and spiritual leader of the Egba people, a prominent Yoruba sub-ethnic group primarily based in Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State, Nigeria. The title “Alake” is derived from Ake, one of the four major divisions of Egbaland, and the seat of royal authority. The Alake serves not only as a cultural and spiritual figurehead but also as a symbol of unity among the Egba people globally.
Historical Origins
The Egba people originally resided in the old Oyo Empire but migrated southward in the early 19th century following internal strife and external pressures, particularly Fulani invasions. Under the leadership of warrior-chiefs and traditional heads, the Egba settled in Abeokuta in 1830, a naturally fortified region beneath the famous Olumo Rock.
The Alake institution was formalized as the highest traditional office among the Egba groups, uniting the clans of Egba Ake, Gbagura, Oke-Ona, and Owu. The first officially recognized Alake in Abeokuta was Oba Okukenu Sagbua, who was crowned in 1854.
Role and Significance
The Alake of Egbaland is regarded as the Chairman of the Egba Traditional Council, presiding over the affairs of the four major Egba divisions and serving as the voice and representative of the Egba people in political, cultural, and religious matters.
Key responsibilities include:
- Preserving Egba traditions, customs, and values.
- Mediating in community and chieftaincy matters.
- Hosting and leading cultural festivals like Lisabi Day and Olumo Day.
- Engaging with state and federal authorities on development matters.
- Promoting peace, education, and socioeconomic growth within the kingdom.
The Current Alake: Oba Dr. Michael Aremu Adedotun Gbadebo, CFR
His Royal Majesty Oba Dr. Michael Aremu Adedotun Gbadebo, CFR, ascended the throne on August 2, 2005, as the 10th Alake of Egbaland, bearing the royal title Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland. He hails from the Ladapo family of the Egiri Ruling House and is a direct descendant of Oba Gbadebo I, who reigned from 1898 to 1920.
Before ascending the throne, Oba Gbadebo served meritoriously in the Nigerian Army, retiring as a Colonel. He is a distinguished alumnus of the University of Ibadan and the prestigious Royal College of Defence Studies in the United Kingdom. His reign has been marked by modernization, peace-building, educational advocacy, and the advancement of Egba culture and unity.
Oba Gbadebo is known for fostering inclusivity, engaging Egba indigenes in the diaspora, and supporting initiatives that promote youth empowerment, women’s development, and cultural heritage preservation.
Legacy and Influence
The Alake’s stool remains a revered institution in Ogun State and throughout Yorubaland and Nigeria. It represents a living connection to pre-colonial history, a guardian of Yoruba customs, and a force for unity in a rapidly evolving society. The Alake plays host to national dignitaries, diplomats, cultural historians, and global Yoruba descendants who seek cultural reconnection.
The Alake of Egbaland is more than a traditional ruler—he is a custodian of a proud people, an ambassador of peace and culture, and a guiding light for future generations. As Abeokuta continues to grow as a center of commerce, culture, and education, the Alake remains at the heart of its identity and progress.
Oba Dr. Adedapo Tejuoso, CON, Karunwi III
A Pillar of Egba Royalty and Custodian of Oke-Ona Heritage
The Osile of Oke-Ona Egba is the traditional ruler and spiritual leader of the Oke-Ona Egba people, one of the four principal divisions of the Egba nation, alongside Ake, Gbagura, and Owu. The Osile’s domain stretches across parts of Ibara, Ago-Oba, Ilugun, and surrounding communities within Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State, Nigeria.
As one of the foremost monarchs in Egbaland, the Osile holds a revered position in the Egba Traditional Council, playing an essential role in preserving Yoruba customs, fostering unity, and guiding development initiatives within the Oke-Ona jurisdiction and beyond.
Historical Background
The title “Osile” has its roots in the migration of the Egba people from the Old Oyo Empire during the early 19th century. Following their settlement in Abeokuta, the Egba maintained the independence of their clan-based traditional institutions. The Oke-Ona people, known for their deep commitment to cultural values, commerce, and spiritual wisdom, established the Osile throne as a unifying symbol of leadership and identity.
The Osile’s palace is traditionally situated in the Sapon/Ibara axis of Abeokuta, where the ruler maintains administrative and ceremonial authority over the Oke-Ona region.
The Current Osile: Oba Dr. Adedapo Tejuoso, CON, Karunwi III
His Royal Majesty, Oba Dr. Adedapo Tejuoso, Karunwi III, ascended the throne in 1989 and is the current and distinguished Osile of Oke-Ona Egba. A man of profound spirituality, medical expertise, and noble heritage, Oba Tejuoso is widely respected for blending traditional leadership with modern wisdom.
The Osile of Oke-Ona Egba
Cultural and Civic Contributions
As a monarch, Oba Tejuoso has been a strong advocate for:
- Cultural preservation and the documentation of Egba and Yoruba history.
- Youth development and mentorship, particularly through education and vocational training.
- Peacebuilding and interfaith harmony, bridging traditional beliefs and modern spirituality.
- Healthcare awareness, leveraging his background as a physician to promote wellness and community health initiatives.
He also plays a pivotal role in coordinating the Lisabi Festival, alongside the Alake and other Egba monarchs, fostering unity and cultural celebration among Egba sons and daughters at home and in the diaspora.
The Osile of Oke-Ona Egba embodies the enduring wisdom of Yoruba royalty, serving as a guardian of tradition and a forward-looking leader in a modern Nigerian society. Through his stewardship, the Oke-Ona Egba people have remained culturally proud, spiritually grounded, and progressively engaged in the development of Egbaland.
The Olowu of Owu
Oba Prof. Saka Adelola Matemilola (Oluyalo Otileta VII)
Sovereign of the Owu Kingdom and Pillar of Egba Royalty
The Olowu of Owu is the paramount traditional ruler of the Owu people, one of the four major Egba divisions in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria. Renowned for their military heritage, resilience, and leadership in Yoruba history, the Owu people have maintained a distinct royal identity under the esteemed title of Olowu—a title held in high regard across Yorubaland.
The Owu people were among the early settlers of Abeokuta in the 19th century, following years of migration and wars in the Old Oyo Empire. Today, the Olowu stands as a symbol of Owu sovereignty, tradition, and spiritual unity within the broader Egba nation.
Historical Background
The Owu people trace their origins to the ancient Owu Kingdom, located in present-day Osun State. Following the fall of their homeland during the Owu wars in the early 19th century, they migrated southward and later joined the Egba in establishing Abeokuta as a fortified settlement under the protection of Olumo Rock.
In Abeokuta, the Owu retained their distinct kingship, and the Olowu title was formally reestablished. The Olowu was recognized not only as a leader among his people but also as a key figure in the collective leadership of Egbaland. The Owu people are known for their valor, strategic alliances, and deep involvement in the civil, military, and cultural development of Abeokuta.
The Current Olowu: Oba Prof. Saka Adelola Matemilola (Oluyalo Otileta VII)
His Royal Majesty, Oba Prof. Saka Adelola Matemilola, known as Oluyalo Otileta VII, is the current Olowu of Owu, officially crowned in 2022. He hails from the respected Otileta Royal Dynasty, one of the five ruling houses of the Owu Kingdom.
Oba Matemilola is a distinguished academic, scientist, and former Shell Nigeria executive. He holds a doctorate in mechanical engineering and brings to the throne a wealth of global experience in education, leadership, and research. A scholar-king, he is revered for his intellect, humility, and passion for community transformation.
Since ascending the throne, Oba Matemilola has worked to modernize the institution of the Olowu while preserving the values and traditions of the Owu people. His reign is marked by efforts to promote education, youth development, digital literacy, and cultural reawakening.
Role in the Egba Traditional Structure
The Olowu of Owu is a key member of the Egba Traditional Council, alongside the Alake of Egbaland (paramount ruler), the Osile of Oke-Ona, and the Agura of Gbagura. While each ruler maintains authority over his domain, they collaborate on matters affecting the collective well-being of the Egba nation.
Owu Kingdom’s military legacy and distinct festivals, such as the Owu Day Festival, contribute to the rich cultural tapestry of Egbaland.
Civic and Cultural Contributions
Under the leadership of successive Olowus, the Owu people have:
- Preserved distinct chieftaincy titles and age-grade institutions.
- Promoted educational and vocational advancement.
- Celebrated annual Owu Day, a pan-Owu gathering that showcases culture, unity, and development.
- Contributed significantly to Abeokuta’s governance, economy, and intellectual capital.
The Olowu of Owu embodies the strength, intellect, and cultural pride of the Owu people within the broader Yoruba civilization. Through centuries of migration, survival, and innovation, the Olowu institution has remained a beacon of identity and leadership.
Today, under the enlightened reign of Oba Prof. Saka Adelola Matemilola, the Owu throne continues to evolve as a platform for cultural excellence, youth engagement, and visionary development in Egbaland and Nigeria at large.
Late Oba Saburee Babajide Bakre (Jamolu II)
Royal Custodian of Gbagura Heritage and Pillar of Egba Unity
The Agura of Gbagura is the traditional and spiritual ruler of the Gbagura people, one of the four principal clans that form the Egba nation in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria. As a prominent monarch within the Egba traditional hierarchy, the Agura oversees the Gbagura kingdom, upholding the customs, traditions, and values of a proud and resilient Yoruba sub-group.
The Agura’s throne, like those of the Alake of Ake, the Osile of Oke-Ona, and the Olowu of Owu, contributes significantly to the governance, cultural preservation, and unity of the Egba people.
Historical Background of Gbagura and the Agura Title
The Gbagura people trace their origins to the Old Oyo Empire. They migrated to the Abeokuta region during the Yoruba internecine wars in the 19th century and became foundational members of the Egba coalition that settled under the protection of Olumo Rock.
The Agura title was institutionalized to represent the sovereignty and leadership of the Gbagura clan, establishing its royal house and chieftaincy system within the larger Egba framework. The Agura’s domain includes areas such as Sabo, Ago-Oko, Oke-Aregba, and parts of Obantoko and Ajebo, forming a distinct geographical and cultural entity within Abeokuta
The Agura of Gbagura
The Late Agura: His Royal Majesty, Oba Saburee Babajide Bakre (Jamolu II)
His Royal Majesty, Oba Saburee Babajide Bakre, also known as Jamolu II, is the 9th Agura of Gbagura. He ascended the throne on May 21, 2019, following a rigorous selection process from among the ruling houses of Gbagura. He succeeded the late Oba Halidu Laloko, who passed away in 2018.
Oba Bakre brought a blend of traditional wisdom and modern sensibility to the throne. A public administration graduate and an accomplished businessman, the Agura was committed to the socio-economic development of Gbaguraland, promoting education, infrastructural growth, and youth empowerment.
His reign was characterized by peaceful engagement, the modernization of the palace, and efforts to bridge the gap between traditional institutions and state governance. Oba Babajide joined his ancestors on Wednesday, 14th June 2023.
Role in the Egba Traditional Council
The Agura of Gbagura holds a seat on the prestigious Egba Traditional Council, working collaboratively with the Alake of Egbaland (paramount ruler), the Osile of Oke-Ona, and the Olowu of Owu to ensure peace, cultural vibrancy, and unity among the Egba people.
These monarchs provide traditional oversight, resolve chieftaincy matters, and celebrate key festivals that reinforce Egba identity, such as Lisabi Festival and Olumo Day.
Cultural and Civic Contributions
The Agura of Gbagura plays a crucial role in:
- Preserving and promoting Gbagura customs and heritage, including unique dialects, festivals, and traditional rites.
- Upholding the Gbagura chieftaincy institution, which includes age-grade systems and advisory chiefs (Olorogun, Jagun, etc.).
- Championing education and youth development, especially through local scholarship initiatives.
- Encouraging infrastructural growth and partnerships with public and private organizations for community development.
One of the notable cultural celebrations under the Agura’s leadership is the Agura Festival, which highlights the Gbagura people’s rich history and resilience.
The Agura of Gbagura is more than a traditional ruler; he is a symbol of identity, pride, and hope for the Gbagura people. Through historical preservation, progressive leadership, and cultural advocacy, the Agura continues to steer Gbagura towards unity, growth, and relevance in the contemporary Nigerian landscape.
Under the reign of Oba Saburee Babajide Bakre, Jamolu II, the Gbagura kingdom experienced a cultural renaissance and social renewal that echoes the strength and wisdom of its ancestors.
Born into the illustrious Tejuoso family, he is a prince of both royal and professional pedigree. Before his enthronement, he served as a medical doctor and entrepreneur. Oba Tejuoso is a graduate of the University of London (St. Mary’s Hospital Medical School) and has used his influence to promote education, healthcare, and spiritual development throughout his kingdom and across Nigeria.
Known for his deep Christian faith, the Osile has built churches and founded ministries that emphasize moral uprightness and social responsibility. His palace is a beacon of hospitality, learning, and spiritual dialogue.