ABEOKUTA-
History was made in the ancient town of Ijaye, a prominent community in Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State, Nigeria as Dr. Lai Labode, a distinguished culture expert, community leader, and businessman, was formally installed as the new Balogun of Ijaye, one of the most revered traditional titles in Egbaland.
The installation rites, rooted in the customs and heritage of ljaye people, took place earlier on the 15th June 2025, amidst the chants of praise-singers, drumming and presence of the entire people of the community while the sacred rites was performed by the traditional custodians of the land in such a calm atmosphere, signalling the acceptance by the anscestors of Ijaye and that of Egbaland.
The ceremony marked the official initiation of Chief Lai Labode into the council of Ijaye chieftaincy title holders—a significant one, ushering in a new era of leadership rooted in service, unity, and cultural advancement.
High Chief Lai Labode being installed as the new Balogun of ljaye by the traditional custodians of the community in the presence of dignitaries and the entire community in ljaye, Abeokuta
“I am honored to announce my official installation as the foremost royal and traditional authority in Ìjàyè Kurumi, Egbaland as the Balogun of Ìjàyè Kurumi.This ascension is not about personal glory. It’s about creating systems that reward excellence, inspire progress, and uplift the Ijaye Kurunmi people and Egba at large. I wear the mantle with reverence for those who came before, and those yet to rise.Let this chapter be a testament that African leadership, when rooted in heritage and driven by vision, can truly transform communities. I do not take this responsibility lightly. As Balogun and leader, I am committed to serving, protecting, and uplifting Ìjàyè Kurumi and, by extension, Ẹ̀gbá in every possible way”, Labode said.
Later on, a grand social reception was held at the prestigious Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) Event Centre in Abeokuta, which became a convergence point for royalty, diplomats, government officials, scholars, tourism personalities, and cultural enthusiasts and well wishers. The atmosphere was celebratory yet reverent, reflecting the deep historical significance of the Balogun title and the high esteem in which Dr. Labode is held.
Attendees came from across Nigeria and beyond, particularly from the Ijaye-Egba community to witness and celebrate this momentous occasion. The presence of top-notch dignitaries—including traditional rulers, business moguls, and cultural custodians—signified a collective endorsement of Dr. Labode’s leadership and the strategic role he is expected to play in preserving and promoting Egba culture.
About Dr. Lai Labode
Dr. Lai Labode is a highly respected figure with an impressive academic and professional background. A PhD holder who has contributed immensely to the community development, and cultural preservation over the decades. Known for his progressive ideas and unwavering commitment to heritage promotion. He is the brain behind “Egbaliganza” a fashion runway initiative that transformed the last Lisabi Festival into a talk of town like never before. His installation is seen by many as a bridge between tradition and modernity.
A multiple title holder, one of which is the Osi Apagun Pote of Egbaland, a role in which he demonstrated loyalty, wisdom, and influence in Egba affairs—traits that now define his new office as the Balogun of ljaye. High Chief Labode is also recognized for his contributions to cultural tourism development and his work in fostering intergenerational cultural dialogue.
The Role of the Balogun
In Egba traditional hierarchy, the Balogun is not just a warrior title but also a custodian of security, heritage, and communal leadership. Historically, Baloguns were known as the protectors of the land—both in battle and in upholding social harmony. Today, that role has evolved into being a cultural ambassador, a voice of the people, and a visionary in socio-cultural development.
A Boost for Cultural and Tourism Development
His installation ceremony also reinforces Abeokuta’s positioning as a cultural tourism destination. The blend of tradition and modern celebration demonstrated how cultural leadership can inspire civic pride and attract both local and international interest.
Dr. Labode’s installation is not only a celebration of legacy and identity but a clarion call for service to the community, unity, innovation, and cultural renaissance among the Egba people and Yorubaland at large which the new Balogun of Ijaye is ready to deliver.
