Royal Splendour as Oba Samuel Aliu Adegbehingbe, the Olumafon of Imafon Kingdom, Celebrates Coronation Anniversary
The serene community of Imafon in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State came alive with pomp and pageantry on Sunday 24th of November, 2024 as dignitaries from diverse walks of life converged to celebrate the 18th Coronation Anniversary of Oba Samuel Aliu Adegbehingbe, Atonlusi 1, the Olumafon of Imafon Kingdom.
This historic occasion also marked the 2nd Anniversary of his being elevated to the status of the first beaded-crown Oba of Imafon, a significant milestone in the kingdom’s history.
The day began with a glorious thanksgiving service held at the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Oke-Isegun District Headquarters, Imafon. The celebrant, clad in regal attire that epitomized his royal stature, humbly gave thanks to God for the grace and mercy that have defined his reign.
The grand reception that followed at the palace was nothing short of majestic, drawing a vibrant array of traditional rulers, community leaders, and well-wishers.
Speaking at the thanksgiving service, Oba Samuel Aliu Adegbehingbe expressed profound gratitude to God for His unwavering support over the years and acknowledged the divine guidance that has sustained him through 18 years of leadership and particularly the last two years, which have brought greater recognition and honour to Imafon through the Ondo State Government’s conferment of the beaded crown.
The Olumafon did not fail to appreciate the presence of his fellow monarchs who journeyed from far and near to share in his joy, he extended prayers for the prosperity of Imafon’s sons and daughters, both at home and in the diaspora, urging them to remain steadfast in their contributions to the community’s growth.
Prominent traditional rulers, including Oba (Dr.) Olufunmilayo Omoniyi, Akapinsa of Ipinsa Land, and Oba Benjamin Omoleewo, Elekun of Ilekun, congratulated the celebrant on this remarkable achievement. They extolled his virtues as a visionary leader and prayed for peace and progress in Imafon under his reign.
In his tribute, Oba Adu Omotayo, the Asinigbo of Isinigbo, described Oba Adegbehingbe as a warm-hearted and approachable monarch whose leadership continues to inspire unity and development.
He also prayed for more years of fruitful reign and blessings upon the Olumafon and his family.
The thanksgiving service featured a soul-lifting sermon by Pastor Oluwafemi Omobola Emanuel, Chairman of the Akure Central Coordinating Council of CAC Oke-Isegun. Taking his text from 1 Chronicles 29:14, Pastor Emanuel emphasized the importance of humility and dedication to God. He lauded Oba Adegbehingbe for his unwavering faith and prophesied a bright future for Imafon, envisioning it as a hub for businesses and government institutions.
In an interview with Democrat News Magazine, Oba (Dr.) Sunday Adebayo, the Asakin of Abo-Asakin, praised the Olumafon’s exemplary leadership qualities. He noted that Oba Adegbehingbe’s reign has brought unprecedented progress to Imafon, and he prayed for continued divine favour upon his rule.
Oba David Ogunlade of Ibule and Oba Jimoh Olugbenga, Ajagun of Ilu-Moba Ekiti, also extended their congratulations, they expressed optimism about the sustained growth of Imafon, attributing its development to the visionary leadership of Oba Adegbehingbe.
The celebration was graced by a long list of royal fathers, underscoring the Olumafon’s influence and goodwill among his peers; among the esteemed attendees were Oba Ojogbariaka of Ilado, Oba Olufemi Benjamin of Ilekun, Oba Raphael Ojo of Ipogun, Oba Destiny Saka of Irese, Oba Adeleke Adedoyin, the Owa Ale of Ikare-Akoko, and Oba Gbenga Adeyeye of Isinkan Land, among others.
The grandeur of the event was a testament to the Olumafon’s deep connection with his people and his commitment to fostering unity among traditional rulers. His leadership has been instrumental in bringing development to Imafon, earning him accolades from within and beyond Ondo State.
The Olumafon’s reign has been marked by a relentless pursuit of progress, as evidenced by the numerous developmental strides witnessed in Imafon.
His anniversary celebration served not only as a reflection of his achievements but also as a rallying call for further community advancement.
the celebration left an indelible mark on all attendees, reinforcing the significance of traditional leadership in driving grassroots development. Oba Samuel Aliu Adegbehingbe’s reign continues to shine as a beacon of hope and prosperity for his people.