Shared fate and friendship: The journey of two foremost Yoruba kings

By Pius Ade Babaleye

The Yoruba proverb “Anjọọ́rin, a kò mọ orí Aládé,” meaning “we don’t know who will wear the crown,” perfectly encapsulates the remarkable story of Oba Adedokun Omoniyi Abolarin, the Orangun of Oke-Ila, and Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, the Soun of Ogbomosho. These two prominent monarchs, whose destinies have been intertwined for over five decades, share a story of friendship, perseverance, and a shared path that has seen them both ascend to the thrones of their forefathers.

The bond between Oba Adedokun and Oba Ghandi began in 1973 at Adventist Grammar School in Ede, Osun State. As young boys, they walked the same corridors, attended the same classes, and formed a friendship that would stand the test of time. Their paths continued to converge, as both attended the prestigious University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife), further solidifying their bond.

Despite walking similar paths in their formative years, they ventured into different careers. Oba Adedokun became a teacher, political scientist, and lawyer, while Oba Ghandi pursued a career as a successful businessman and later became a top pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) in the United States. Both excelled in their respective fields, achieving professional success before fate led them to their ultimate destinies as monarchs.

In 1991, Oba Adedokun was called to the Nigerian Bar as a lawyer, a momentous occasion in his life. His close friend and schoolmate, Oba Ghandi, was right by his side to celebrate this achievement, a testament to the strength of their enduring friendship. It was a symbolic moment, capturing the shared journey of two friends whose paths, though divergent at times, remained deeply connected.

In 2006, Oba Adedokun was crowned the Orangun of Oke-Ila, marking his entry into the traditional leadership of his people. His friend Oba Ghandi, though still immersed in his pastoral duties, would later join him on the royal stage in 2023 when he was crowned the Soun of Ogbomosho. The two friends, now kings, have shared not just a friendship but a destiny shaped by their upbringing, education, and a common calling to serve their people.

Their over 50 years of friendship is a story of shared fate, perseverance, and mutual support. From their school days to their rise as traditional rulers, they exemplify the Yoruba belief in destiny and the unpredictable nature of life’s journey. The Yoruba proverb rings true in their lives: “Anjọọ́rin, a kò mọ orí Aládé”—we may journey together, but we don’t know who will wear the crown.

As they lead their respective communities, Oba Adedokun Omoniyi Abolarin and Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye continue to inspire others with their story of friendship, leadership, and shared fate. Their lives serve as a reminder that the bonds we form, the paths we tread, and the friendships we nurture can carry us to unexpected and glorious destinations.