Ayangbure Honours Ikorodu Centenarians with Royal Visits During 11th Coronation Anniversary

As part of activities marking his 11th Coronation Anniversary, the Ayangbure of Ikorodu Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Kabir Adewale Shotobi, Adeborushen V, has paid special royal visits to two respected centenarians in Ikorodu, celebrating their remarkable longevity and invaluable contributions to the growth and development of the ancient kingdom.

The royal visits took the monarch and members of his entourage to the residences of Pa Ashafa Ajibola Erogbogbo, who recently celebrated his 100th birthday, and Most Superior Evangelist Taiwo Oshin, aged 102.

Pa Erogbogbo, the father of the Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. (Dr.) Abike Dabiri-Erewa, received the royal delegation at his residence in Igbo-Oluwo, while Evangelist Oshin welcomed the monarch at his home on Losi Oba Avenue in Ikorodu.

During the visits, Oba Shotobi presented the elderly statesmen with cash gifts, food items and other gift packages as a mark of appreciation for their lifelong service to Ikorodu Kingdom and humanity.

Speaking during the visits, the Ayangbure said the initiative was designed to honour living legends whose sacrifices, wisdom and contributions laid the foundation for the progress the kingdom enjoys today.

According to the monarch, the history and development of Ikorodu cannot be separated from the efforts of its founding fathers and elders, many of whom dedicated their lives to the advancement of the community.

“Ikorodu did not just come into existence. We have our founders, elders and forefathers who made Ikorodu what it is today. Some of these elders are still alive and have witnessed the history and transformation of this kingdom. It is only right that we appreciate and celebrate them while they are still with us,” Oba Shotobi said.

He added that the visits were also intended to bring joy and encouragement to the senior citizens, noting that many elderly people rarely receive such recognition during their lifetime.

The monarch commended the Ikorodu-Oga Development Association (IKODASS) for its continuous efforts in celebrating senior citizens across the kingdom and disclosed that similar visits to other centenarians would continue as part of his anniversary activities.

Former Lagos State Commissioner and Asipa of Ikorodu, Asiwaju Kaoli Olusanya, described the initiative as timely and commendable, stressing that society should celebrate its elders while they are alive rather than waiting until after their passing.

According to him, beyond honouring the elderly, the visits also provide younger generations with opportunities to learn from their experiences and preserve valuable historical knowledge about Ikorodu.

He also urged governments at all levels to strengthen policies and welfare programmes aimed at improving the quality of life of senior citizens.

Also speaking, the Aro of Ikorodu Kingdom, High Chief Emmanuel Olufemi Onafowokan, praised Oba Shotobi for what he described as an innovative and compassionate initiative, noting that the visits would remain memorable for both the monarch and the centenarians.

Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, Pa Ashafa Erogbogbo expressed appreciation to the Ayangbure for the honour and offered prayers for the continued peace, progress and prosperity of Ikorodu Kingdom.

Similarly, Most Superior Evangelist Taiwo Oshin said he was overwhelmed by the unexpected royal visit, describing it as one of the greatest honours of his life.

His daughter, Mrs. Oluwafumilayo Oshin Oyetade, thanked the monarch on behalf of the family, describing the initiative as thoughtful and worthy of emulation.

The royal entourage included the Bobakeye of Ikorodu, Chief Niyi Banjoko; the Saalu Apesin of Ikorodu, Chief Abiodun Awolesi; the Chairman of IKODASS, Alhaji Kolawole Fatai; traditional chiefs, Baales and other prominent members of the kingdom.

The visits formed one of the highlights of activities commemorating Oba Shotobi’s 11 years on the throne, reflecting his commitment to preserving Ikorodu’s rich heritage while recognising the men and women whose legacies continue to shape the kingdom.