His Royal Majesty, King Dr. Aremu Michael Adedotun Gbadebo, the Okukenu IV, was born on 14 September 1943 into the Laarun Ruling House. His birth, coinciding with the Centenary Celebration of Christianity in Egbaland, was a unique event.
This faith and religion carved out a niche for Egbaland and influenced the young prince’s upbringing. He, too, had the fruits of good Western education, which the Egbas had an edge in Nigeria due to their early exposure to Christianity. King Gbadebo’s lineage is not just a family tree but a rich tapestry of history and tradition that commands awe and reverence.
He is a grandson of the sixth Alake of Egbaland, King Gbadebo, who ruled from 1898 to 1920, and is a nephew of King Gbadebo II. His great-grandfather was Okukenu, the first Alake of Egbaland. Through Okukenu, Gbadebo’s lineage traces back to Laarun, an Alake of Egbaland who ruled in the early 1700s. Laarun is Gbadebo’s 5th-great-grandfather, a testament to the enduring legacy of his family.
The Egba people are one of the Yoruba subgroups in Nigeria, predominantly found in the southwestern region, particularly in Ogun State. Their history is rich and deeply rooted in the larger Yoruba civilization.
A Royal Celebration Alake of Egbaland, Oba Dr. Aremu Gbadebo, CFR, Marks His 80th Birthday in Grand Style
Abeokuta, Nigeria — The ancient city of Abeokuta shimmered with cultural pride and regal splendor as dignitaries, traditional rulers, citizens,
A Life of Distinguished Service
Abeokuta, Nigeria — The ancient city of Abeokuta shimmered with cultural pride and regal splendor as dignitaries, traditional rulers, citizens,
Celebration Highlights
Abeokuta, Nigeria — The ancient city of Abeokuta shimmered with cultural pride and regal splendor as dignitaries, traditional rulers, citizens,
Chief of Staff and the Bobagunwa of Egbaland
Our traditions anchor us, our people uplift us, and our future unites us