Arowona turbanned as Shettima

Garlands as Baruten emirate turbans illustrious son, Arowona, as Shettiman Okuta land.


On Saturday, November 6, 2021, the Okuta Emirate in Kwara North, Kwara State, Nigeria was literarily electrified and agog as array of visitors from all walks of life, from the east to the west, south to the north thronged the emirate with pomp and pageantry to honour the erudite and consummate journalist, Abdulazeez Arowona. It was the day the Okuta land celebrated the19th Gaani festival under His Royal Highness, the Emir of Okuta and chairman, Baruten Emirate Council, Alhaji Idris Sero Abubakar. Although Gaani festival is an annual event, the one on November 6, was novel and unique. It was the day the emirate council turbaned its illustrious son, Arowona with the title of Shettima. It was an honour bestowed on him in appreciation of his contributions to his father land and to encourage him to do more.

Gaani festival, a week-long event is synonymous to the Islamic celebration of the birth of prophet Muhammadu (S.A.W) the Eid-el Maulud. It is an annual cultural festival usually celebrated throughout the Baton kingdom. During the event individuals who by their conduct must have distinguished themselves, are recognized and turbaned with titles related to their lineage. Such title holders, automatically becomes ‘Special Advisers’ to their respective paramount rulers. Abdulazeez, a well-respected media guru, author, presenter, producer and prolific writer is a lover of his people and culture. He is the founder, publisher and Chief Executive Officer of Royal News Newspapers, an online media platform. The well attended event was graced by illustrious sons and daughters of the Emirate Council across the globe, monarchs from different parts of the country, seasoned journalists, politicians and businessmen.