By Divine Sam
The Reformed Ogboni Fraternity (ROF) held its highly anticipated 2025 National Conference in grand style at the Jogor Event Centre in Ibadan, Oyo State, drawing members from across the nation and beyond. The two-day event, themed “Exploring the Principles of Ogbonism for a Fulfilled Life,” served as a platform for reaffirming the fraternity’s core values unity, integrity, wisdom, and communal upliftment.
Presided over by the Grandmaster and Olori Oluwo of the Fraternity, Olori Francis O. Meshioye (OFR), alongside Otunba Oluwatoyin Adisa (Olori Apena) and Barr. Aramide Oniru (Olori Iyabiye), the conference attracted distinguished members of the Supreme Council, leaders of regional Lledis, and cultural stakeholders.
In his welcome address, Chairman of the Central Working Committee, Chief Awotunde Rotimi, expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to host the conference outside Lagos for the second time. He described the gathering as a “meeting of minds and spirits” aimed at strengthening the moral and cultural fabric of the fraternity and wider society.
“This event brings together leaders and members of our noble fraternity for dialogue and reflection. We are not just preserving culture we are shaping lives through the principles of Ogbonism,” he noted.
Chief Rotimi extended appreciation to the Olori Oluwo, Olori Apena, the Supreme Council, donors, speakers, and members of the organizing committee for their unwavering support and commitment.
Delivering the keynote lecture on the theme, Dr. Albert Tobi-Amosu (JP, PhD), a member of the Executive Council, delved into the historical roots and modern relevance of Ogbonism. He emphasized that Ogboni, in ancient Yorubaland, was a revered council of elders tasked with justice, governance, and preserving traditional wisdom.
“Ogbonism is not merely a cultural ideology it is a complete philosophy that embraces self-awareness, spiritual growth, communal service, and moral fortitude,” Dr. Tobi-Amosu said.
He stressed the core values of the Reformed Ogboni Fraternity as critical to national development and personal fulfillment:
Balance and Harmony
Self-Awareness
Resilience
Community Engagement
Spiritual Connection
He added that the Fraternity transcends religious, ethnic, and political boundaries, rooted instead in the universal principles of truth, justice, and love.
Reiterating the purpose of the fraternity, Dr. Tobi-Amosu reminded participants that the ROF was founded by Archdeacon T.A.J. Ogunbiyi in 1914 as Ogboni Onigbagbo, but was later rebranded to Reformed Ogboni Fraternity to reflect inclusivity across all faiths and backgrounds.
He emphasized that the ROF is legally recognized in Nigeria and is not a secret cult, as often misunderstood.
“We are a cultural and spiritual organization bound by love, truth, and service not darkness or fear. Our Iledi (conclaves) are places of light, learning, and growth.”
Also speaking at the event, Olori Apena Otunba Oluwatoyin Adisa Akanbi praised the leadership of the Grandmaster, urging members to continue drawing inspiration from his example.
“Ogbonism teaches us to live with principle and honor. Let us apply these teachings in our daily lives for personal and societal transformation,” he said.
Olori Aramide Oniru, Olori Iyabiye, also commended the conference, emphasizing the significance of women’s roles in the fraternity and encouraging leaders to act upon the resolutions put forward by female members.
Oluwo Adedeji Oluwatoyin of Lagos region 6J noted that the ethics and principles of the fraternity are for people of like minds who are willing to comply with the humanity standard and understanding how to lived peacefully with others that’s why people assumed our confraternity is a secret cult. The significance of ogbonism principles is for all of us to believe in humanity standard of living a true life and that’s do to others exactly what you want others to do unto you.
Olori Francis Olugbenro Meshioye, the Grandmaster and Olori Oluwo, closed the conference with a compelling call for unity and national service.
“As a fraternity, we stand for truth, integrity, and justice. We must lead by example and offer wisdom to our communities in these trying times,” he declared.
“Ogbonism is not an ancient relic it is a living philosophy. It is our responsibility to walk in the light of our ancestors, grounded in love, justice, and community.”
He addressed misconceptions around the fraternity, asserting
“We are not a secret cult. We are a fraternity of light and wisdom. We keep our doors open to all who seek understanding, truth, and growth. Our values are not hidden they are proudly lived and shared.”
The conference concluded with a vibrant cultural celebration, including a live band, traditional dance, and interactive sessions where members contributed ideas for the growth of the fraternity. Members from across the country spoke of their pride in the fraternity’s legacy and their hope for greater societal impact through the principles of Ogbonism.
With the next national conference scheduled for 2027, the 2025 edition left participants inspired, united, and recommitted to the path of integrity, spiritual awareness, and cultural preservation.
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