The Apeju of Ilupeju Ekiti, His Royal Majesty, Oba Sunday Awe, took Nigerian Fuji music maestro, King Wasiu Ayinde Anifowose, popularly known as KWAM 1 (K1), by surprise when he conferred upon him the prestigious traditional title of Balogun of Ilupeju Ekiti.
The chieftaincy title was bestowed on Saturday, February 8, 2025, during a brief ceremony held at the monarch’s palace.
In a video currently trending online, K1, who had initially knelt at a distance while the monarch prayed for him, was asked to move closer to the throne for his formal installation.
It soon became evident that the Ijebu-born Fuji legend was unaware of the honor about to be bestowed upon him. As the monarch made the pronouncement, K1 exclaimed in surprise, “Ha!”
The king then adorned the new Balogun with the traditional coronation leaves, known as Akoko, to the admiration of onlookers.
While performing the rites, Oba Awe declared: “In Jesus’ name, you will live long. The blessings of Jesus Christ will not depart from you. You will not be unfortunate. In Jesus’ name.”
Addressing the people of Ilupeju Ekiti, the monarch continued: “Congratulations to all indigenes of Ilupeju Ekiti. This is our son… Today, in recognition of the love Wasiu has for us and by the authority conferred on me, I install K1 as the Balogun of Ilupeju Ekiti.”
In his response, K1 expressed gratitude for the honor and assured the monarch that he would live up to the responsibilities of his new title.
He described the chieftaincy as a challenge he was willing to embrace, assuring that with God’s support, he would not fail in any task entrusted to him.
