On Friday, the Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke approved the appointment of a new Owa Obokun of Ijesa kingdom, Prince Clement Adesuyi Haastrup. The new monarch emerged after defeating nine other candidates who contested with him from the same Owa Bilaro Olu-Odo ruling house.
Here are 10 things you need to know about the new Owa Obokun.
- Royal Lineage: Prince Clement Adesuyi Haastrup was born on September 19, 1948, into the Ajimoko royal family of Ijesaland. His heritage is deeply rooted in the traditions of the region.
- Educational Background: The new Owa Obokun attended Eko Boys’ High School in Lagos between 1963 and 1967 and the Federal School of Science before earning a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree from Howard University in Washington D.C., USA.
- Political Career: Upon returning to Nigeria in 1981, Prince Haastrup entered politics and served as the Deputy Governor of Osun State in 1991 under the administration of Isiaka Adeleke, late brother of incumbent governor, Ademola Adeleke.
- Business Ventures: After his political tenure, he founded ENL Consortium Limited in 2002, expanding into sectors such as power, port operations, hospitality, estate development, construction, and mining.
- Philanthropy: Through his foundation, Prince Haastrup has awarded educational scholarships to over 500 students, both locally and internationally.
- Family Life: The new Owa is married to Princess Omolara Haastrup, and they have children together.
- Religious Commitment: A devoted Christian, Prince Haastrup attributes his achievements to divine guidance.
- Cultural Significance: As the Owa Obokun, he becomes the paramount ruler of Ijesaland, a position of great cultural and historical importance among the Yoruba people.
- Succession: He succeeds Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran II, who passed away in September 2024 after a 42-year reign. The appointment of Prince Haastrup as the new Owa -elect was sequel to the demise of the immediate past Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesha land, Oba ( Dr) Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran II on the 11th of September 2024 .
- Vision for Ijesaland: His leadership is anticipated to usher in a new era of progress and development for the region, leveraging his extensive experience in governance and business.
A date for his coronation is expected to be announced soon
