Wasimi community in Ewekoro Local Government Area of Ogun State recorded another milestone on Saturday 8 November 2025 as Dr Freeman Osonuga and Pharm Damilola Osonuga were formally installed as the Asiwaju Baaloro and Yeye Asiwaju Baaloro of Wasimi Land. The installation was carried out by His Royal Majesty Oba Sufian Adisa Sunday Jolaosho Soludero Ilufemiloye the First during the second anniversary of his coronation as the Olu of Wasimi Land.
The ceremony, held at the playgrounds of the Baptist Central Nursery and Primary School Wasimi, drew a large gathering of residents, traditional title holders and invited guests. It was conducted alongside activities marking the monarch’s coronation anniversary, with prayers, cultural presentations and visits from neighbouring royal fathers. Among the dignitaries present were Oba Abdulfatai Akamo, the Olu of Itori, Oba Abdul Rasaq Famuyiwa, the Onipapa of Papalatoro, and Oba Mathew Ajibulu, the Olu Onigbedun. Others included High Chief Dr Rotimi Olasode Martins, the Jagunmolu of Owu Kingdom, and Chief Ademola Lawal, the Akogun of Epe.
Speaking shortly after receiving the title, Asiwaju (Dr) Osonuga said the installation was a responsibility he was prepared to take seriously. He noted that the decision to accept the role was influenced by his long term relationship with the community and his interest in contributing to its development. “I see this title as work, not recognition alone. It is a reminder that community leadership requires consistency and a willingness to support the people,” he said.
He described the honour as a point of reflection on how traditional institutions continue to play a role in community progress. “Our traditional system remains one of the strongest structures for grassroots development. When the palace calls you to serve, it is an opportunity to contribute to stability and growth. I intend to play my part,” he added.
Chief (Dr) Osonuga also said the installation signaled a renewed commitment to support community-led initiatives, particularly those that encourage the participation of young people. “Many of the challenges communities face today require collaboration. I hope to work closely with Kabiyesi and other stakeholders to strengthen areas where residents need support,” he stated.
He expressed appreciation to the monarch and the dignitaries present, describing their attendance as an encouragement to continue promoting unity across different towns in the state. “The presence of our royal fathers today shows that communities thrive when leaders work together. It is a reminder that development is not achieved through isolation,” he said.
The event included cultural performances by local groups and a reception for guests. Palace officials said the installation followed consultations with community leaders and was based on the charitable contributions of the honourees to the town over the years.
In a brief remark during the event, Oba Jolaosho Soludero Ilufemiloye the First urged the new Asiwaju Baaloro and Yeye Asiwaju Baaloro to support the aspirations of the people. He said the titles given to them reflected the confidence the community had in their capacity to add value to local affairs.
The installation of Pharm (Mrs) Damilola Osonuga as the Yeye Asiwaju Baaloro was also acknowledged by women leaders and youth representatives who described it as a positive development for the community’s leadership structure.
The palace announced that activities marking the monarch’s coronation anniversary would continue with visits to selected groups in the community, followed by meetings aimed at reviewing ongoing development efforts in the area.
For many residents, the combination of the coronation anniversary and the installation of new leaders made the day a significant one for Wasimi. Palace officials said the titles conferred were in line with efforts to strengthen community participation and ensure continuity in traditional governance.
