By Oluwatoyin Mathnuel
Saturday the 26th of April, 2025 was the grand finale of the 20th coronation anniversary of HRM Oba Samuel Atanda Oladipupo The ‘ AYERONWI 1’ ‘ Olu of Ifo land in Ifo Local Government Area of Ogun state.
The one week event with an outstanding activities of memorial according to Chief Ajani Yusuf Balogun “The Aremo Oba of Ifo Land” look like a carnival of a life time as it housed creme la creme in the society including House of Rep member Hon. Sikiru, former Ogun state speaker Rt. Hon Oluomo, Royal fathers, political gladiators across the country, Ifo market men and women to mention but few.
Prince Olufemi Oladipupo in his brief interview with the media could not but proud of his father’s achievements as The Olu of Ifo Land .
Sit back and enjoy the chat !
—- Congratulations to HRM The Olu of Ifo on this 20th coronation anniversary, do introduce yourself sir?
— I am Prince Olufemi Oladipupo, speaking on behalf of the family and as one of the sons of Oba Samuel Atanda Oladipupo, the Ayerounwi the First of Ifo Land.
— Your father has been on the throne for over 20 years. Can you tell us about the developments in Ifo during his reign?
—- A lot has changed over the years. Today, Ifo proudly houses a Magistrate Court and a High Court. There are also plans in motion, championed by Rt. Hon. Kunle Oluomo, to complete a stadium that will serve the community. A city hall has already been built, and our local market has expanded significantly. The government has also committed to maintaining and renovating both major and inner roads.
By and large, Ifo has experienced monumental growth in my own opinion.
— Are investors welcome in Ifo land?
— Absolutely. We have Prime Mart, one of the largest malls in the region, and the government is actively partnering with agro-allied establishments to drive growth. The local government chairman, in collaboration with Kabiyesi, is working hard to create an investor-friendly environment in the city.
— What should the government work on more speedily?
— I believe the road projects need to be completed as soon as possible to make movement easier and encourage further development. The government should also work on uplifting the socio-economic status of our people. Supporting market women and continuing to provide essential infrastructure and services would go a long way in improving the lives of residents.
— How would you describe your father?
— Oba Samuel Atanda Oladipupo, the Ayerounwi I, has always been more than a traditional rulerāhe is a servant leader. For over 60 years, he has prioritized the goodwill and welfare of his people. He is loving, loyal, humble, and deeply committed to community development.
He was also the first Executive Chairman of Ifo Local Government, a testament to his long-standing relevance in governance and leadership. In my humble opinion, he remains one of the greatest men to walk this land
.– It was a successful coronation anniversary get-together, your appreciation ?
— Although the originally scheduled program in March was moved to April and key dignitaries were unable to attend due to their tight schedules, their involvement and input were deeply felt, even in absentia.
Weād like to take a moment to extend our heartfelt gratitude to God Almighty, Chairman and committee members of the 20th coronation anniversary, all the High Chiefs, the Oba-in-Council, and Hon. Olakunle Oluomo for their continuous support to our father.
Special thanks also go to our Olori, Adeyemi, whose unwavering support has been a pillar of strength for Kabiyesi.
—-Thank you for your time sir!
—– You are most welcome!
