Princess Oluwabukola Fehintola Adefarasin, who has just returned to her roots in Ijede Kingdom in Ijede Local Council Development Area (LCDA) of Ikorodu Division, after several years abroad is in a celebratory mood
But her homecoming this time around was in tandem with the traditional rites of the royal kingdom and a part of the conclusion of the coronation rites for her father who was crowned the Alajede of Ijede, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Hon.) Adefarasin Saheed Hassan, Ajanaku II.
In this interview with Kunle Adelabu, Publisher/Reporter -in -Chief, THE IMPACT newspaper, Princess Oluwabukola bore her mind on the reception by residents of Ijede for her homecoming, her father’s emergence as the Alajede and her plan not just to visit Ijede often from her base abroad, but also to bring her children along and connect them with their roots.
THE IMPACT: Thank you for accepting the interview and congratulations on your dad’s emergence as a monarch and your homecoming. Today, you have returned as a major part of this historic moment. How would you describe your arrival and the reception by the people of Ijede?
Princess Oluwabukola: I was quite surprised. A lot of people came out to welcome me, and it was such a beautiful sight to see everyone celebrating and honouring me. I was truly happy to witness it. It was a very warm and wonderful reception.
THE IMPACT: Now that you are part of this royal journey, how would you describe your father’s ascension as a monarch?
Princess Oluwabukola: It has been a long time coming, and he has now stepped into his rightful place. I feel deeply honoured and proud. It is a blessing not just to me, but to the entire town. I believe this will bring great things, and I know he will do great things for the community.
THE IMPACT: You were once the daughter of an honourable member of the LSHA and a council chairman. Now, you are a princess to a first-class monarch in Lagos State, has or will that change anything in you?
Princess Oluwabukola: Not really. I have seen my father grow from being a local council honourable councillor, to serving in the House of Assembly, and then as a local government chairman. I have been part of that journey, watching his progress, his kindness, and his dedication to people. Becoming a monarch is simply another step for him to make the impact he has always desired. He truly loves where he comes from and has always wanted to do great things for the community.
THE IMPACT: Does this mean Ijede people will be seeing more of you, since you have roles to play as the first born of the monarch in the kingdom?
Princess Oluwabukola: Yes, and definitely. I will be coming more often. I also want my children to stay connected to their roots — to learn the culture and traditions. They are excited to know they are princes, and I want them to experience the same warm reception I received and see how wonderful the people are.
THE IMPACT: Finally, your parting words for the people?
Princess Oluwabukola: Yes! I want to say congratulations to them, and thank them so much for everything they have done. The reception was incredible. Everyone was supportive and welcoming. They brought out so much joy in me, and I feel truly proud to be part of this community. Thank you very much.
