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What You Need to Know About the New Oluko of Ogbagi-Akoko
…..The Inspiring Story of High Chief Nofiu Yemi Mohammed (Adeogun I)
High Chief Nofiu Yemi Mohammed (Adeogun I): The Visionary Oluko of Uko and a Beacon of Hope for Ogbagi-Akoko
In the heart of Ogbagi-Akoko, a town steeped in history and rich cultural heritage, stands a leader whose life story embodies humility, resilience, and a deep-seated passion for community advancement, High Chief Nofiu Yemi Mohammed, the Adeogun I, and the 14th Oluko of Uko.
His journey from humble beginnings in Ode Agbede Uko to becoming one of the most respected traditional leaders in Akokoland is an inspiring testament to the power of education, service, and purpose-driven leadership.
Early Life and Education
Born in the early 1980s into the illustrious family of Chief Mohammed in Ode Agbede Uko, Ogbagi-Akoko, young Nofiu Yemi Mohammed grew up in an environment that valued integrity, hard work, and communal responsibility. His father, a respected community leader, and his mother, a dedicated trader, both instilled in him the virtues of perseverance, humility, and service to humanity.
He began his academic journey at AUD Primary School, Ogbagi-Akoko between 1990 and 1996, where he earned his First School Leaving Certificate. His brilliance and leadership potential were evident even at that stage. Determined to pursue further education, he proceeded to Ahmadiyya Grammar School, Ogbagi-Akoko from 1997 to 2003, one of the foremost secondary institutions in the area. There, he successfully completed his Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) and distinguished himself as both an excellent student and an active participant in extracurricular activities.
Driven by an insatiable quest for knowledge, he secured admission into Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti, in 2010 to pursue a National Diploma (ND) programme. His time at the Polytechnic reflected his usual zeal for learning and participation in social and academic life. However, fate soon redirected his academic path when he gained admission into the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) one of Nigeria’s most prestigious universities, to study Guidance and Counselling Education, where he earned his Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) degree.
At UNN, High Chief Mohammed was not just a student; he was a force in student leadership. He served as President of the Akoko Northwest Students’ Union for two consecutive terms and was also a two-term Senator of the National Association of Ondo State Students (NAOSS). His outstanding representation of Akoko students across Nigeria earned him respect among peers and the admiration of the academic community.
Upon completion of his studies, he undertook his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme in Lagos State, where he served diligently at the National Industrial Court, Lugard Avenue, Ikoyi, Lagos during the 2018/2019 service year. His conduct and commitment during service reflected the values of diligence, discipline, and patriotism.
Political and Leadership Involvement
High Chief Nofiu Yemi Mohammed’s political consciousness and leadership instincts were nurtured early in life through his involvement in student unionism and community advocacy. His formal political journey began as far back as 1999, when he joined the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogbagi-Akoko.
In 2007, he became an active member of the PDP Exco in his ward, serving meritoriously as Organizing Secretary until 2011. In this capacity, he championed youth inclusion, democratic participation, and the advancement of his community through active grassroots engagement.
Over time, his political ideology evolved in alignment with the progressive values of the All Progressives Congress (APC), where he now plays a prominent role both at the state and national levels. Notably, in 2022, he was appointed as the Ondo State Coordinator for the Tinubu Door-to-Door Ambassadors, a pivotal structure that contributed immensely to the success of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2023 general election. His strategic leadership and organizational acumen were instrumental in mobilizing support across the grassroots.
Service and Community Engagement
Beyond politics, High Chief Mohammed’s commitment to community service has been unwavering. He has remained a strong pillar in the socio-cultural development of the Uko community and Ogbagi-Akoko at large.
Between 2002 and 2015, he served as the Second-in-Command (Igbakaji Olori) of the Origbegi Age Group, where he demonstrated exemplary leadership, unity-building, and commitment to the progress of his peers. He currently belongs to the Egbe Ilekure Age Group, continuing to inspire and guide younger generations in community service and traditional values.
In recognition of his long-standing dedication, humility, and capacity for leadership, he was recently installed as the 14th Oluko of Uko, bearing the revered title of “The Adeogun I” , a symbolic honour that reaffirms his status as a custodian of Uko’s cultural identity and a bridge between tradition and modernity.
Professional Career
High Chief Mohammed’s professional career also reflects his steady rise through dedication and merit. He currently serves in the Ondo State Judiciary Service Commission, where he contributes to the effective administration of justice in the state.
He remains ever grateful to Honourable Justice Olashinde Kumuyi (Chief Osuwe of Eegunland), under whose mentorship and recommendation he secured the opportunity to serve in this prestigious establishment. His performance in the judiciary system underscores his professionalism, loyalty, and diligence.
Family and Personal Life
Behind his leadership strength lies a pillar of family support. High Chief Nofiu Yemi Mohammed is happily married, and his union is blessed with three lovely children. He describes his family as the bedrock of his success, a source of love, discipline, and inspiration. His marriage reflects the same values he preaches in public life: unity, patience, and mutual respect.
The Future of Ogbagi-Akoko under the Reign of Oluko Adeogun I
As the Oluko of Uko, High Chief Nofiu Yemi Mohammed (Adeogun I) has ushered in a new chapter of cultural rejuvenation and visionary leadership. His reign holds immense promise for the socio-economic transformation of Ogbagi-Akoko and its environs.
With a deep understanding of modern governance, youth development, and community organization, the Oluko envisions an Uko community where tradition and progress coexist harmoniously. His leadership agenda focuses on empowering youth through education and skills development, strengthening cultural tourism, and fostering unity among the various age groups and family lineages within Uko.
High Chief Mohammed believes that the strength of Ogbagi-Akoko lies in its people, their resilience, creativity, and shared identity. Through collaborative efforts with government institutions, traditional councils, and development partners, he aims to position Ogbagi as a model of grassroots transformation in Ondo State.
As the Adeogun I, his reign is already symbolizing renewal, a reign anchored on wisdom, inclusivity, and the unwavering belief that heritage is not a relic of the past, but a foundation for the future.
High Chief Nofiu Yemi Mohammed (Adeogun I), the 14th Oluko of Uko, stands as a beacon of hope and continuity, a bridge between the glorious traditions of the past and the emerging aspirations of a new generation. His life story is an inspiring reflection of service, leadership, and destiny fulfilled.
For Ogbagi-Akoko, his reign represents not just a return to cultural pride, but the dawn of a future defined by unity, progress, and purposeful leadership.
