On Saturday, August 9, 2025, the historic town of Ikorodu was alive with vibrant colors, rhythmic beats, and a deep sense of pride as the grand finale of the 10th Coronation Anniversary of His Royal Majesty, Oba Kabiru Adewale Shotobi, the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, took center stage in a spectacular celebration of culture, tradition, and unity.
The event, which took place at the Ikorodu Musical Village, marked the culmination of a week-long programme that began on August 2.
The series of activities went beyond commemorating a decade on the throne; it reflected the monarch’s far-reaching influence as both a custodian of Yoruba heritage and a leader who bridges traditional authority with modern governance.
Throughout the week, the celebrations featured a rich blend of cultural performances, youth empowerment initiatives, community engagement programmes, and interfaith prayers.
Each activity mirrored Oba Shotobi’s vision of building an Ikorodu deeply rooted in tradition while embracing forward-looking development.
The grand finale drew an extraordinary gathering of dignitaries from Nigeria’s political, judicial, and royal circles. Notable attendees included Babatunde Raji Fashola, former Lagos State Governor and Minister of Works and Housing; Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru, representing Lagos East Senatorial District; Rep. Babajimi Adegoke Benson, Ikorodu Federal Lawmaker; and Hon. Sanai Oyeniran Bolanle (S.O.B.) Agunbiade, former Majority Leader of the Lagos State House of Assembly.
The royal presence was equally imposing, with Oba (Dr.) Munirudeen Adesola Lawal, Laminisa I, Timi of Ede; Oba Babatunde Adewale Ajayi, Torungbuwa II, Akarigbo of Remo; Oba Fatai Aremu Aromire, Ojora of Ijora; Aare Gani Adams, the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland; Oba Semiudeen Orimadegun Kasali, Adeboruwa of Igbogbo; Oba Abdul-Akeem Oyebo, Obateru of Egbin; and Oba Ajibade Mudashiru Agoro, Ranodu of Imota in attendance.
From the political and judicial spheres came Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission; Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, First Lady of Lagos State; Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat, wife of the Lagos State Deputy Governor; Senator Barau I. Jibrin, Deputy Senate President of Nigeria; Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ọjájá II, the Ooni of Ife; and Hon. Justice Kazeem Olanrewaju Alogba, Chief Judge of Lagos State.
The turnout of such a high-profile audience underscored Oba Shotobi’s national stature.
In an era where traditional rulers often serve symbolic roles, his ability to command respect across governance, law, and cultural institutions was evident.
In his goodwill message, Senator Barau Jibrin described the monarch as “a community builder and a symbol of peace,” crediting him with transforming Ikorodu into a thriving urban hub.
He commended Oba Shotobi for successfully blending traditional values with modern governance, fostering unity, and promoting grassroots development in Lagos East.
Representing the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat conveyed warm congratulations from the President’s family.
Speaking on behalf of the First Lady, Mrs. Hamzat promised that the Federal Government would continue to support traditional institutions, acknowledging their essential role in preserving culture, promoting peace, and fostering national unity.
As part of the celebrations, Senator Tinubu was honoured with the traditional title of “Iya Oba” in recognition of her contributions to national development and her long-standing relationship with the people of Ikorodu.
A defining highlight of the event was the participation of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi. His presence symbolized unity among Yoruba monarchs.
In his address, the Ooni praised Oba Shotobi’s progressive leadership and urged for stronger collaboration between royal institutions to protect culture and accelerate socio-economic growth.
Since his ascension in 2015, Oba Shotobi has built a legacy rooted in youth development, educational advancement, cultural preservation, and peaceful dispute resolution.
He has played a significant role in tackling community disputes, supporting anti-land grabbing legislation, and championing causes that strengthen education, security, and peace in Ikorodu and beyond.
As the celebrations reached their peak, the Ikorodu Musical Village transformed into a lively arena of song, dance, and festivity.
The Ayangburen, joined by dignitaries and his wife, Olori Kudirat Abosede Shotobi, cut his 10th Coronation Anniversary Royal cake, a moment that captured the unity of the royal household and its bond with the community.
Oba Kabiru Adewale Shotobi, the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, has expressed heartfelt gratitude to all dignitaries, friends, and well-wishers whose presence and support made his 10th Coronation Anniversary celebrations memorable.
He assured that the progress and development of Ikorodu will continue to remain his top priority.
The evening closed with an electrifying performance by Fuji music legend Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (K1 the Ultimate), whose captivating rhythms and praise-singing energized the crowd and etched the anniversary into the hearts of those present.
What began as a royal milestone ended as a powerful affirmation of Ikorodu’s cultural pride, unity, and aspirations under a monarch who stands as both a guardian of tradition and a champion of progress.
INN-HOUSE☆ 