In a significant development, the Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde has officially approved the appointment of Prince Afolabi Ghandi Olaoye as the Soun-elect of Ogbomosoland. This appointment comes following meticulous adherence to legal protocols, ensuring a seamless transition of leadership within the ancient kingdom. His Excellency, Governor Makinde, extends his heartfelt congratulations to the new Soun-elect and expresses optimism for enhanced harmony among the people under his rule.
This momentous occasion marks the passing of the torch from the late Oba Jimoh Oladunni Oyewumi, who faithfully served as the Soun for 48 remarkable years until his peaceful transition on December 12, 2021.
Prince Afolabi Ghandi Olaoye, born on August 23, 1961, stands as the new beacon of leadership for Ogbomosoland. He is a devoted family man, married with two children, and concurrently serves as a Pastor within the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).
During the rigorous selection process, Prince Ghandi made a notable commitment to embrace the diverse religious traditions of Ogbomosoland, including Traditional, Christian, and Islamic practices, reflecting his dedication to fostering unity and understanding among the people.
Prince Ghandi’s lineage traces back to the distinguished royal family of Olaoye, firmly establishing his roots within the rich tapestry of Ogbomoso’s heritage.
Known affectionately as “Pastor G,” Prince Ghandi brings over three decades of pastoral experience to his new role, having commenced his pastoral duties at RCCG in 1992. His spiritual leadership has been influential, not only within Ogbomoso but also beyond its borders.
Before his elevation to the esteemed position of Soun, Prince Ghandi’s pastoral journey led him to oversee three RCCG churches in Nigeria. His educational background is equally impressive, holding a BA Honors in English and Literary Studies from Obafemi Awolowo University and a Masters degree in Industrial and Labor Relations from the University of Ibadan, both testaments to his intellectual prowess.
Prince Ghandi’s commitment to public service extends beyond the spiritual realm. He served on the Board of National Council on Privatization (NCP) and Bureau of Public Enterprise (B.P.E) from 2017 to 2021, contributing his expertise to national development initiatives.
Furthermore, Prince Ghandi’s dedication to mentorship and leadership empowerment is evident through his role as a member of the Board of Trustees of Strategy for Mentoring Initiative & Leadership Empowerment (S.M.I.L.E). He also serves as the CEO of Peculiar People Management (PPM) and GihonRiv Limited, distinguished Management and Human Resource Consulting Companies, with offices in Lagos, Nigeria, and Dallas, USA.
As Prince Afolabi Ghandi Olaoye assumes the mantle of leadership as the new Soun of Ogbomosoland, his diverse experiences, spiritual leadership, and commitment to unity and progress position him as a promising leader ready to uphold the legacy of his forefathers and guide Ogbomoso toward a prosperous future.
Following the controversial approval of a Pastor to assume a prominent Yoruba leadership role, concerns have arisen among followers of the Orisa religion both in Nigeria and across the globe. Their apprehension stems from the fear that individuals from diverse religious backgrounds, including pastors and Muslims, may ascend to positions associated with Orisa beliefs only to later criticize and introduce foreign faiths into these revered roles.
This unease has been amplified by the outspoken stance taken by Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Àkànbí, who has consistently downplayed the significance of the Orisa tradition since his elevation to the throne. Many within the Orisa community argue that such actions could lead to the further erosion of Yoruba culture and the rich tapestry of its traditions.
Advocates for maintaining the sanctity of Yoruba culture insist that kingmakers should adhere to the Ifa tradition when selecting a new leader, emphasizing that this would ultimately benefit the Yoruba people. They assert that recent monarchs who do not follow the Isese and Orisa religions have contributed to the growing religious intolerance issues within Nigeria.
Gov. Makinde appealed to the indigenes of the city to work with the monarch to consolidate the successes of his forefathers.
“His Excellency congratulates the new Soun-elect on his ascension to the throne of his forebears.”
