Youngest Yoruba King Graduates from University

Youngest Yoruba King Graduates from University

Oba Oloyede Adekoya Akinghare II, the Arujale-Ojima of Okeluse Kingdom in Ondo State, has graduated from Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, with a degree in Political Science. The 23-year-old monarch is widely regarded as one of the youngest traditional rulers in Yorubaland.

The young king’s graduation marks a significant academic milestone, having completed his university education while carrying out his responsibilities as a traditional ruler. Akinghare ascended the throne in 2019 at the age of 16, following the death of his father.

His achievement has attracted attention on social media, with many Nigerians celebrating his dedication to education and his ability to balance academic pursuits with royal duties.

Youngest Yoruba King Completes University Education

Oba Akinghare graduated from Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, during the institution’s convocation ceremony held on Wednesday.

He completed his degree in Political Science approximately seven years after becoming the traditional ruler of Okeluse Kingdom. His academic journey has drawn admiration from members of the public, particularly because he continued his studies despite the demands of his royal position.

The monarch’s achievement highlights his commitment to higher education while fulfilling his responsibilities to his kingdom.

Prominent Traditional Rulers Attend Convocation Ceremony

The university’s convocation ceremony attracted several prominent traditional rulers who gathered to celebrate the graduating students.

Among those in attendance were the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi; the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III; the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe Aladesanmi III; and the Ogoga of Ikere-Ekiti, Oba Samuel Adejimi Adu Alagbado.

The ceremony reportedly saw 2,194 students graduate, making it the largest graduating class in the university’s history.

How Oba Akinghare Balanced Royal Duties and Education

Oba Akinghare became the ruler of Okeluse Kingdom in Ondo State in 2019, following the death of his father. At just 16, he assumed the responsibilities associated with traditional leadership while continuing to pursue his educational ambitions.

Throughout his time at university, the monarch occasionally shared moments from his academic experience on social media, offering followers a glimpse into his life as a student.

In 2026, he also granted an interview to BBC Yoruba, during which he discussed his experiences as a university student. The interview provided further insight into how he managed his education alongside his duties as a traditional ruler.

His graduation demonstrates how he pursued his academic goals while maintaining his position as the Arujale-Ojima of Okeluse Kingdom.

Palace Warns Against Informal Ways of Addressing the Monarch

In January 2026, Oba Akinghare attracted public attention after his palace issued a statement addressing how members of the public should refer to him.

The statement, released by his Chief of Staff, Prince Adefemi Olorunfemi, cautioned against using informal expressions such as “bro” and “blood” when addressing the monarch. Instead, the palace emphasised that he should be addressed as “His Royal Majesty”.

According to the statement, the monarch’s young age should not be regarded as a reason to disregard his royal status. The palace also warned that the use of such informal expressions would no longer be tolerated and could attract firm action.

The announcement generated public discussion about royal protocol, respect for traditional institutions and the responsibilities associated with the office of a traditional ruler.

Nigerians Celebrate the Young Monarch’s Academic Achievement

News of Oba Akinghare’s graduation has generated positive reactions on social media, with many people congratulating the monarch on completing his university education.

His journey from ascending the throne as a teenager to earning a degree in Political Science has attracted admiration from members of the public.

Beyond the academic qualification, his achievement highlights the importance of education and personal development, even for individuals with demanding leadership responsibilities.

As the Arujale-Ojima of Okeluse Kingdom celebrates this milestone, his graduation represents another important chapter in his journey as a young traditional ruler committed to both education and service to his people.

 

ALSO READ: UNIOSUN Graduate Earns First Class and Four Major Awards at Convocation

 

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Youngest Yoruba King Graduates from University
Youngest Yoruba King Graduates from University
Youngest Yoruba King Graduates from University
Youngest Yoruba King Graduates from University
Youngest Yoruba King Graduates from University
Youngest Yoruba King Graduates from University
Youngest Yoruba King Graduates from University
Youngest Yoruba King Graduates from University
Youngest Yoruba King Graduates from University
Youngest Yoruba King Graduates from University
Youngest Yoruba King Graduates from University
Youngest Yoruba King Graduates from University