His Royal Majesty, Oba Sakiru Oyewole Adekola-Oyelere, Ajani-Eedu II, Gbadewolu 1, the Onifiditi of Fiditi, has formally installed Chief Solomon Oluwole Olanipekun as the first Ekeje of Fiditi land, in a ceremony rich in tradition and cultural significance.
The historic installation ceremony was held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at the Onifiditi Palace in Fiditi, drawing dignitaries, community leaders, and well-wishers from within and beyond the town.
The conferment of the Ekeje title marks a significant addition to the traditional chieftaincy structure of Fiditi, underscoring the monarchy’s commitment to strengthening community leadership and preserving its heritage.
Speaking at the ceremony, the monarch described the elevation of Chief Olanipekun as a well-deserved honour, rooted in decades of service, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the development of Fiditi.
The Onifiditi-in-Council, in its recommendation, noted that the choice of Chief Olanipekun reflects a careful consideration of his character, experience, and the longstanding contributions of the Olanipekun family to the growth of the town.
The monarch further emphasized that the title of Ekeje carries both prestige and responsibility, urging the new chief to continue to serve as a pillar of unity, peace, and progress in Fiditi land.
For the Olanipekun family, the installation represents the continuation of a legacy spanning three generations, during which the family has remained actively involved in community affairs and traditional institutions.
The ceremony also doubled as a celebration of Chief Olanipekun’s 76th birthday, which was commemorated earlier on March 14, 2026, adding a personal milestone to the historic occasion.
In his acceptance remarks, Chief Olanipekun expressed profound gratitude to the monarch, the council of chiefs, and the people of Fiditi for the honour bestowed upon him.
He pledged to uphold the dignity of the title and make meaningful contributions to the community’s cultural and socio-economic advancement.
Chief Olanipekun is widely regarded as a devout Christian and a committed member of the First Baptist Church, where he has been actively involved in religious and community service over the years.
Professionally, he is a seasoned tailor whose career spans several decades, earning him respect within his trade and the wider community.
He is also a longstanding member of the Nigerian Union of Tailors, having remained active in the union since the late 1960s.
Community members at the event described the new Ekeje as a man of humility, discipline, and dedication, qualities they believe will serve the town well in his new role.
Dignitaries present at the ceremony commended the Onifiditi and his council for what they termed a thoughtful and visionary decision that aligns with the aspirations of the people.
The colourful ceremony featured traditional rites, cultural displays, and goodwill messages, reflecting the rich heritage and unity of Fiditi people.
Observers noted that the installation not only honours an individual but also reinforces the enduring relevance of traditional institutions in fostering grassroots development and cohesion.
Dignitaries in attendance are; Chief Adebowale Omotosho – The Asiwaju of AFIJIO and his wife Chief (Mrs) Khadija Omotosho- The Otun Iyalaje of Oyo; Dr Adekunke Ladipo Ogunmola (Former INEC National Commissioner) and his Wife Chief (Mrs) Iyabo Ogunmola; Dr (Surv) Dupe Nihinlola Olayinka-Dosumu – Rector, Federal School of Surveying, Oyo; Mr wale Adesokan SAN; Rev. Mobolaji Anthony Adegbola former Chairman, Oyo Baptist Conference; Rev. Dr. Femi Oyedokun Music Pastor, Immanuel Baptist Church; Hon. Femi Aikomo Chairman, AFIJIO Local Government among other dignitaries.
Traditional Rulers at the occasion includes: Oba Amidu Adewale Okunlola – The Alawaye of Awaye; Oba Olaniyi Adeoye Adegboye – The Oloodu of Ojongbodu, Oyo; Chief Idowu Akintunde – The Olukotun of Komu among other traditional rulers.
Others include; Chairman and members of the Nigerian Bar Association,Oyo Branch, Members of Judiciary Staff Union, several members of Oyo Premier Club, Oyo, members of Nigeria Union of Tailors in their Hundreds also graced the Occasion
