The Aare Alawo Ekun of Ofiki Land, His Royal Majesty, Alayeluwa Oba Gbenga Adigun Adeoye Oyetunji Oyinlola, has congratulated Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Abiodun Makinde, on the occasion of the state’s 50th anniversary.
In a statement issued on behalf of the Aare-in-Council and the people of Ofiki, the monarch also extended his congratulations to the Chairman of ATISBO Local Government Area, Alhaji Bashir Olumuyiwa Alade, as well as other stakeholders in the state, for their contributions to the development of Oyo State.
“This golden jubilee is a celebration of grace, hard work and the giant strides recorded by the founding fathers of Oyo State,” Oba Oyinlola said.
“It is also a moment to reflect on how far the state has come in the last 50 years.”
The monarch equally felicitated the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rasheed Ladoja on the anniversary, noting his position as Chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas.
He also felicitated the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade and the Okere of Saki, Oba Khalid Oyeniyi Olabisi Oyedepo III.
“We also felicitate the Olubadan of Ibadanland for witnessing this historic milestone and for his leadership role as Chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas,” he stated.
Commending Governor Makinde’s leadership style, the Aare Alawo Ekun described the governor as one of the most progressive leaders the state has produced.
“Since assuming office, Your Excellency has made Oyo State proud as one of the most fearless and progressive leaders the state has ever produced,” the monarch said.
“We encourage you to remain focused and strategic in fulfilling all your campaign promises to the people.”
Oba Oyinlola further offered prayers for continued peace and security across the state, stressing the importance of stability to sustainable development.
“It is our collective prayer that Oyo State will continue to remain peaceful and secure against any internal or external threat,” he added.
The monarch, however, used the opportunity to remind the governor of the need for the construction of the Owotoro–Ofiki–Irawo Road, a 13-kilometre stretch he described as vital to economic growth.
“We wish to respectfully remind Your Excellency of the Owotoro–Ofiki–Irawo Road,” he said.
“This 13-kilometre road is strategic to the economic growth of our communities, ATISBO Local Government Area and Oyo State as a whole.”
He concluded by congratulating the governor and all residents of the state on the golden jubilee celebration.
“Congratulations once again to Your Excellency and to all the good people of our great state as we celebrate Oyo at 50,” Oba Oyinlola said.
