By Peter Omopo
Ilesa, Osun State – April 30, 2025 — Preparations are in full swing for the coronation of Oba Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, the 49th Owa Obokun Adimula and Paramount Ruler of Ijesaland, as a week-long celebration of royal traditions and cultural pride is set to commence on May 16, 2025.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Thursday by Chief Shola Oshunkeye, Chairman of the Media and Publicity Sub-Committee of the Coronation Committee. The grand coronation ceremony will take place on Friday, May 23, at the Owa’s Palace in Ilesa.
“All events will hold at Ilesa, the capital and heartland of Ijesaland, where strong indications have already emerged that the epoch would be an iconic representation of royal pageantry rarely witnessed in this clime,” the statement noted.
The festivities will kick off with a Jumat service at the Ilesa Central Mosque at 1 p.m. on May 16, followed by a cultural celebration at Obokungbusi Hall on Saturday, May 17. That evening, the palace courtyard will host a grand Isese Night, showcasing traditional rites and heritage.
Highlights of the following week include a royal tour of Ijesa zones on Monday, May 19, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the grand finale of coronation sporting events on Tuesday, May 20. These will feature the Owa Ajimoko III Ijesa Marathon beginning at 7 a.m., followed by the football competition final, medal presentations, and an awards ceremony at Ilesa Grammar School Sports Arena.
Oba Haastrup, a former deputy governor of Osun State, is expected to be formally crowned amidst great fanfare and traditional regalia that reflect the deep-rooted culture of Ijesaland.
