Oba Mike Ajayi clocks a decade on the throne

By Funsho Arogundade

Splendour is, of course, an eternally subjective concept. But there is an enduring archetype of fairy-tale splendour associated with royalty everywhere. Few monarchs are known for their fascinating air of distinction, grace and of course natural gait. Oba Michael Odunayo Ajayi, the Elerinmo of Erinmo-Ijesha, falls among this category. The widely respected economic strategist ascended the throne in July 2014, after being unanimously chosen by the Arowotawaya Ruling Dynasty of Erinmo-Ijesha, Osun State, and accepted by the kingmakers as their new monarch.

Since the erudite scholar, with a vast array of awards and honorary PhDs, was crowned as the paramount ruler of that ancient Ijesha town a decade ago, he has brought his influence and goodwill to shine on Erinmo. Just this past week, the town had a golden glow cast over it when Oba Ajayi celebrated his 10th coronation anniversary. The week-long celebrations, which began on August 5, was nothing short of a symphony of epoch-making events with several projects – in line with the new Erinmo Development Agenda – unveiled and launched. Many sons and daughters of Erinmo-Ijesha honoured the king with their presence, while they lauded him for a decade of leadership, resilience and community spirit. The 10th coronation celebration culminated into a grand finale and grand royal reception on Saturday, 10 August at the Elerinmo Palace.

Oba Ajayi is a renowned businessman and pioneer Director-General of the Ghana-Nigeria Chamber of Commerce.