Osun state governor, Ademola Adeleke, has presented the staff of office and instrument of appointment to the new Owa of Igbajo, Oba Ademola Makinde, to replace the suspended former chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Oba Adegboyega Famodun.
In his speech at Igbajo, Wednesday, Adeleke explained that the immediate past administration did not allow a level playing field for all the seven families in the Owa Oke-Odo Ruling House as it already had an anointed candidate in mind, saying, “this was the grouse of the majority of the citizens of Igbajo that the exercise was not in line with the Custom and Tradition of Igbajo.
“In addressing the yearning of the people of Igbajo, my administration inaugurated a committee to look into all activities of the past Administration on Chieftaincy Matters from July 17 to November 26, 2022. The committee received memoranda from members of the public including from this Community.
“It came up with a recommendation that a proper and all-inclusive selection process should be undertaken. It suggested a new process where all contestants will be accommodated for fair play, equity and in line with the law, custom and tradition of Igbajo.”
He advised the new monarch to be father to all and unite the people of the community for the progress of the government and the state at large.
“See yourself as the Father of all citizens of Igbajo at home and in the diaspora. Do all you can to unite everyone behind you.
“On daily basis, you must seek the growth and development of Igbajo, Boluwaduro East Local Council Development Area, Osun State and Nigeria as a whole. Cooperate with my administration and mobilize your people to contribute their quota to the growth and development of the state.
“To the people of Igbajo, government listened to your yearnings and actualized your aspirations. As the popular adage goes, to whom much is given, much is also expected. The government expects your maximum cooperation and support.
“Government expects you to live in peace and harmony with your neighbours. Government expects you to pay your taxes and levies as and when due. Government expects you to be good citizens of your community and local council joining hands with the Chairman to develop Boluwaduro Local Council Development Area,” Adeleke said.
The new monarch, Oba Makinde explained that he does not belong to any political party, and appreciated governor Adeleke for allowing transparency in the process that produces him.
