Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has presented the staff and instrument of office to the Onigbeti of Igbeti land, HRM. Oba (ENGR.) Bashir Olalekan Abioye (Siyanbola IV).
He charged the new monarch to work for the unity of Igbeti land and should embrace the wisdom, grace, and humility that befit a leader of his stature.
Governor Makinde, who was represented by his deputy, Barrister Abdul-Raheem Adebayo Lawal, stated this on Monday at the event held at UMCA, Ogunbode Memorial Grammar School, Igbeti, Olorunsogo Local Government, which had in attendance members of Oyo Elders and Advisory Advisory Councils; Government functionaries; Royal fathers, among others.
He rejoiced with the people of Igbetiland for having a new king, adding that the momentous occasion signifies the embodiment of tradition, heritage, and the continuation of the legacy of leadership in our land.
According to him, the nomination process of Oba Bashir Olalekan was meticulously followed, starting with the endorsement by the entire family, the presentation by the local government, and the scrutiny by the Ministry, culminating in the final recommendation of his appointment to my office.
The Governor who noted that he’s a firm believer in due process, said that it is heartening to witness such transparency and adherence to tradition in the selection of our leaders.
He said: “I enjoin and implore Oba Bashir Olalekan to work hand in hand with the government in tackling pressing issues such as illegal mining, land grabbing, and kidnapping that threaten the peace and progress of our entire local government. Collaboration and cooperation between the traditional institution and government authorities are paramount in addressing these challenges and ensuring the safety and well-being of our people.
“To Oba Bashir Olalekan, I advise you to embrace the wisdom, grace, and humility that befit a leader of your stature. Listen to the voices of your people, engage with them, and lead by example in fostering unity and progress in your domain. Your reign should be marked by compassion, integrity, and a dedication to the welfare of every individual under your care.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all those involved in making this ceremony possible and thank everyone for their support and dedication to the progress and unity of Igbeti. Let us continue to work together for a brighter future for generations to come.
“On note, in exercise of the power confered upon the Governor by sub-section(1) and(2) of section 20 of the chiefs. Law cap 28 vol.1 Laws of Oyo State of Nigeria,2000, I present the instrument/Staff of office which is the symbol of Authority to His Royal Majesty, Oba Bashir Olalekan Abioye Siyanbola iv Onigbeti of Igbeti.”
Earlier in his welcome address, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy matters, Hon. Segun Olayiwola said that the event mark another landmark in the history of Igbeti land.
He noted that traditional institution has gone a long way in affecting the state positively while appealing to the new monarch to ensure that illegal miners are not allowed in the community.
He equally called on the people of Igbeti land to always support the government in the fight against illegal mining activities in the state.
While expressing his gratitude to Governor Makinde, the newly coronated 16th Onigbeti of Igbeti land, Oba Abioye Siyanbola IV, however said that Igbeti is blessed as their land is rich with solid mineral resources, as well as fertile soil for both food and cash crops.
“Our endowed natural resources and serene environment provide significant sites for tourism and recreation. Our people are very resourceful and industrious.
“We cherish peaceful co-existence, harmonious relationship and law abiding. It is on this ground and historical occasion that I call on His Excellency, our Governor Engr. Seyi Makinde to help harnessing our resources for the good of people of Igbeti and yo State in general. I appeal for the establishment of centre or institute for geological research for development in Igbeti. I crave for investors in and outside the Country for partnership on exploitation and harnessing numerous solid mineral bound in our land for shared prosperity.
“I pray for educational centres and higher institutions for academic advancement of our people. I call on people of my great town of marble city, new dawn has come, lost love is back, posterity is returned, and peaceful breeze has started blowing. I shall work with traditional chief’s in- council, honorary chiefs, Igbeti Toro in and outside Nigeria, prominent sons and daughters of our great town to ensure our youths are gainfully employed and empowered through skill acquisition, grant and soft loan, provision of scholarship for our students, our farmers would be supported for abundant harvest, our women would be trained and equipped in creating wealth. I shall work to ensure available and affordable medical care for all”, he added.
In a separate goodwill message, the lawmaker representing the Oorelope, Irepo and Olorunsogo Federal Constituency, Hon. Lateef Muhammoda, the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Abdul-waheed Soliu Adelabu, Baba Jacob Adetoro, the Asiwaju of Igbeti land, and Alhaji Alani Alwajud, the Special Assistant to Governor Makinde on Federal Constituency matters, thanked Governor Makinde for making the event a reality.
