Makinde Assures Royal Fathers of Entitlements
The Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has assured traditional rulers in the state that his administration will not deprive them of their entitlements.
The governor made this promise at the grand finale of the 2025 Ibadan Cultural Festival, held at the Obafemi Awolowo Liberty Stadium on Saturday.
Governor Makinde noted that the Council of Obas and Chiefs had been in abeyance before his assumption of office in 2019, but he has now mandated the constitution of the council. He assured that once the council is constituted, traditional rulers will begin to receive their dues, including official vehicles.
The governor specifically disclosed that he had directed the eleven local government areas in Ibadanland to provide a befitting fleet of vehicles for the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, before the end of May. This move is seen as a significant gesture of support for the traditional institution and a demonstration of the governor’s commitment to the welfare of traditional rulers.
In his remarks, Governor Makinde thanked the people of Oyo State for their support and the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) for the award of recognition given to the Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri. The CCII had presented Governor Diri with the ‘Outstanding Friend of Ibadanland’ award, in recognition of his outstanding support, inclusive leadership, and contribution to the Ibadan indigenes in Bayelsa State.
Governor Diri, who received the award, commended Governor Makinde for his unprecedented performance and for making the people of the state happy. He thanked the CCII for recognizing his efforts and charged the people to continue supporting Governor Makinde to develop the state.
The Oyo State Governor’s pledge to support traditional rulers is a significant development, as it demonstrates his administration’s commitment to the welfare and well-being of the traditional institution. The provision of official vehicles and entitlements to traditional rulers is a long-overdue gesture, and it is expected to boost the morale of the monarchs and enhance their ability to perform their duties effectively.
The constitution of the Council of Obas and Chiefs is also a welcome development, as it will provide a platform for traditional rulers to come together and address common challenges. The council is expected to play a crucial role in promoting the cultural heritage and traditions of the state, and its constitution is a significant step towards achieving this goal.
The Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who was represented by the Otun Olubadan, Oba Rasidi Ladoja, welcomed the governor’s pledge and thanked him for his support. The president-general of the CCII, Chief Sulaimon Ajewole, also lauded the governor’s unflinching support to the council, Ibadanland, and Oyo State in general.
The chairman of the event, Bamidele Samson, urged all Ibadan people to always exhibit the use of Yoruba language, culture, and religion for the promotion of tradition and cultural heritage.
