- Israel Adesanya returns to Osun State to be honored during the Esa-Oke Day celebration, following his recent UFC title loss
- Adesanya expresses gratitude for the warm reception and honor from his hometown, pledging to continue making Nigeria proud
Nigerian-born mixed martial artist, Israel Adesanya, has returned to his homeland in Osun State, where he is set to be honoured by the people of Esa-Oke. Chief Akin Onifade, the Sajuku of Esa-Oke, announced that Adesanya will be honoured during this year’s Esa-Oke Day celebration.
Adesanya, who arrived in Lagos on Wednesday, just days after losing the UFC 305 crown to South African fighter Dricus Du Plessis, was warmly welcomed at the palace of the Owa-Omiran of Esa-Oke, Oba Alayeluwa Adeyemi Adediran, on Thursday. The event was marked by a carnival-like atmosphere, with traditional drummers and an enthusiastic crowd of youths, family members, and other notable Nigerians.
Chief Onifade stated, “The Esa-Oke born UFC star was ushered into the palace by traditional drummers, accompanied by an enthusiastic crowd of highly elated youths, family members, and other eminent Nigerians.”
The Owa-Omiran thanked God for Adesanya’s achievements and prayed for his continued success. He announced that Adesanya, who hails from the Ananye ruling house, will be honoured during the Esa-Oke Day celebration later this year.
In response, Adesanya expressed his gratitude for the warm reception and the honour bestowed upon him by the community. He shared his delight in returning to his roots and pledged to continue making Nigeria proud.
The reception was attended by several prominent figures, including the Asalu of Esa-Oke, High Chief James Ajewole, the Odogun of Esa-Oke, High Chief Olatunde Esan, Looyin of Esa-Oke, Chief Wale Aregbesola, Sajuku of Esa-Oke, Chief Akinwumi Onifade, the Obalogbo of Esa-Oke, Chief Olabode Ajayi, the Osolu of Esa-Oke, Chief Ajiboye, the Aro of Erinjiyan, Esa-Oke, Chief Akanni Omole, and the Loja of Kajola-Esa-Oke, Oba Akande Adebiyi.
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