The youngest Yoruba king has achieved a major academic milestone by graduating with a degree in Political Science from Afe Babalola University. Oba Oloyede Adekoya Akinghare II, known as the Arujale-Ojima of Okeluse Kingdom in Ondo State, completed his studies while managing heavy royal duties. This remarkable feat proves his dedication to personal growth and public service.
Many prominent figures attended the event. The impressive Afe Babalola University convocation drew several top traditional rulers to Ekiti State. These royal guests included 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. Their presence highlighted the deep cultural significance of the day.
Balancing crown and campus life as a Nigerian traditional ruler
Akinghare stepped onto the throne in 2019 after his father passed away. He was only sixteen years old at the time. Balancing royal duties with lectures is no small task. Yet, this Nigerian traditional ruler managed both roles with grace. He often shared snippets of his campus life on social media channels over the years. An interview with BBC Yoruba offered rare glimpses into his student experiences. People loved seeing this fresh side of the monarch beyond palace walls.
Social media users flooded online platforms with praise. Fans celebrated his steady journey from teen monarch to university graduate. A total of 2,194 students graduated during the ceremony. This milestone marked the largest graduating class in the history of the university.
Respect and protocol for the youngest Yoruba king
Life as a royal student comes with strict rules. Earlier in January 2026, the palace issued a firm directive regarding public address. Prince Adefemi Olorunfemi, the Chief of Staff to the monarch, released an official statement. The palace warned citizens against using casual terms like “bro” or “blood” when speaking to the ruler.
The palace insisted that he must be addressed properly as “His Royal Majesty”. The official statement stressed a vital point:
“The fact that His Royal Majesty is the youngest king in Yoruba land does not give room for disrespect in any form.”
The palace added that such informal expressions would no longer be tolerated. Violators could face “strong and decisive measures”. Earning this degree adds a proud new chapter to his extraordinary story.
