…Ooni, Osun Monarchs, Cleric, Adeleke’s Sister Hail Late Ede Monarch
The Vice Chancellor of Ojaja University, Ilorin, Prof. Jeleel Ojuade, has called on Nigerians to shun killing, kidnapping, corruption, racism, and other vices, urging them instead to emulate the virtues of the 22nd Timi of Ede, the late Oba John Adetoyese Laoye, who joined his ancestors in 1975.
Prof. Ojuade made the call while delivering a lecture at the anniversary banquet organized by the Laoye family in honour of the late monarch. The event was held at Admus Hotel Banquet Hall, Ede, Osun State, under the theme: “Celebrating a Legacy of Rhythm and Royalty.”
Oba John Adetoyese Laoye ruled as Timi of Ede from 1945 to 1975.
The ceremony drew traditional rulers, political leaders, captains of industry, clerics, scholars, family members, and friends from across the country.
Notable attendees included President Bola Tinubu, represented by Prof. Taiwo Akanbi Olaiya, Governing Council Chairman of The Federal Polytechnic, Ede; the Timi of Ede, Oba Munirudeen Adesola Lawal, Laminisa II, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, represented by the Asoya of Ile Isoya, Oba Muraina Adebanjo Adedini;
Others were the Orangun of Oke-Ila, Oba Adedokun Abolarin; the Asa Ooni of Ora-Igbomina, Oba Johnson Adekanmi Abikoye; Senator Lere Oyewunmi representing Osun West; Governor Ademola Adeleke’s sister, Yeye Modupe Adeleke-Sanni; a renowned cleric Prophet Timothy Funsho Akande, and a host of others.
Describing the late monarch as a cultural ambassador and icon, Prof. Ojuade said: “Oba Laoye was not just a ruler, but a philosopher king who lived a fulfilled life.
He was a bridge builder, a messenger, and a drum king whose rhythms communicated messages across communities. His legacy continues to resonate 50 years after his passing.”
Ojuade urged Nigerians at all levels to heed the lessons of the drum and reject crime, corruption, and other societal vices while embracing integrity, unity, and cultural values.
The Timi of Ede, Oba Munirudeen Adesola Lawal, Laminisa II, described Oba Laoye as a monarch whose influence transcended Ede, impacting the nation and beyond. The Orangun of Oke-Ila, Oba Adedokun Abolarin, praised him as a visionary leader committed to societal development.
Yeye Modupe Adeleke-Sanni recalled the late monarch as a fatherly figure who ensured her welfare and education while she was in Oshogbo. Prophet Timothy Funsho Akande recounted the deep friendship between Oba Laoye and his late father, Prophet Samson Akande, noting the profound impact of the monarch’s passing on his family.
Princess Dorcas Monilola Laoye-Adewopo, eldest daughter of the late Timi, described her father as accommodating yet disciplined, urging young mothers to instill values in their children. Her brother, Dr. Anjola Laoye, expressed gratitude to all who attended the event. Prof. Adebambo Adewopo (SAN) hailed Oba Laoye as a rare royal father whose influence endures.
Prince Steve Laoye, chairman of the event planning committee, described the late monarch as a unifying force whose imprints remain indelible.
The event also featured the launch of a commemorative book, “Timi Adetoyese Laoye: Footprints of Royal Grace,” and presentations of awards to prominent Nigerians.
