A Daughter of Royalty Honoured in Akotogbo: Princess Oladunni Odu Becomes the Molahuru Omalore of Akotogbo Kingdom
It was a day of colour, culture, and celebration in Akotogbo, a serene town in Ondo State’s Ikale axis, where tradition met grandeur under the October sun. On October 9, 2025, the ancient community came alive as sons and daughters trooped out in their numbers to witness a historic event — the conferment of a chieftaincy title on Princess Oladunni Odu, the former Secretary to the State Government (SSG) of Ondo State and the Erelu of Ikale Land.
Princess Odu, a distinguished daughter of the late Jegun of Idepe Okitipupa, Oba Akindele, was honoured by His Royal Majesty, Oba Michael Elumaro Akinfolarin, the Larogbo of Akotogbo Kingdom, who bestowed upon her the revered title of Molahuru Omalore of Akotogbo Kingdom.
The ceremony drew a constellation of traditional rulers from across Ikaleland. The atmosphere at the Larogbo’s palace was electric — the rhythmic beating of drums mingled with the fragrance of burning incense, and the rich colours of flowing agbadas and coral beads reflected the depth of Yoruba royalty.
Among the royal fathers in attendance were His Imperial Majesty, Oba George Babatunde Faduyile, the Abodi of Ikaleland; Oba Olorunsola Odogbo of Omi Kingdom; and His Royal Majesty, 
. They came not merely as witnesses but as custodians of culture, lending their blessings to a daughter whose name resonates deeply within the corridors of Ondo State politics and tradition.
In his citation, Oba Akinfolarin described Princess Odu as “a lion-hearted woman, one who stands firm when others falter — a voice for her people and a pillar of courage.” He recounted her steadfast contributions to the progress of Akotogbo and noted her pivotal role in the elevation of the Larogbo stool to a first-class status.
The crowd responded with knowing nods. To them, the king’s words were not mere praise, but a reflection of truth long observed. Princess Odu, resplendent in royal attire, received the honour with poise and humility, her face lit with quiet pride.
Prayers soon followed. The Abodi of Ikaleland, Oba Faduyile, offered royal blessings — for long life, for strength like the ancient iroko, and for wisdom to continue to serve her people.
As the rituals drew to a close, the palace courtyard erupted in jubilation. Drummers pounded their talking drums, singers wove her name into age-old Ikale praise chants, and dancers moved in rhythm, their steps echoing the heartbeat of a proud people.
For the people of Akotogbo, it was more than a title — it was a celebration of legacy, service, and womanhood. And as the sun dipped beyond the palm-lined horizon, many whispered that the ancestors themselves must have smiled that day — seeing the daughter of a king honoured in the land of kings.
