Gov Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, on Tuesday, said that his intervention in he Ibadan traditional institution in 2019 had made the institution solid.
Makinde said this on Tuesday at the residence of the late Olubadan during a condolence visit to the family over the recent demise of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.
The News Agency of Nigeria, recalls that Oba Olakulehin passed away on July 7 at the age of 90 years.
Makinde, during the visit said that he utilised the opportunity of the crisis faced by the institution to strengthen it and to bring unity back to the institution.
He stressed that there was no longer a question about the unity and strength of the Ibadan chieftaincy system.
“I am bold to say that for the next 50 years, the Ibadan traditional institution will remain solid, because we are now united,” he said.
The governor appreciated the traditional institution and all Ibadan indigenes for their support and cooperation during the period that the change occurred.
Makinde further stated that he would pay his last respect to Oba Olakulehin, noting that as a governor and his (Oba Olakulehin) son from Aremo, he would be fully involved in the burial.
In their separate responses, the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, who spoke on behalf of the Olubadan-in-Council, appreciated the governor for his support to the family during Baba’s lifetime and after his demise.
Oba Ajibola said Makinde’s era has been good, especially in the area of his handling of the traditional institution.
“On behalf of the Olubadan-in-Council, I have been asked to greet you and to say that we are happy with you and I am sure the late Olubadan would be happy with you as well.
“It is painful that Kabiyesi has passed away, but we have to appreciate you for standing by us and reforming Ibadan.
“When things were hot, you were there and you brought calm. We are thankful that you are here to also sympathise with us in his absence, he said.
Also, the eldest son of the late Olubadan, Prince Sumbo Owolabi, who spoke on behalf of the family, thanked Makinde for the visit
“Baba has gone to rest and we thank you for not leaving the family after the death of our king,” Owolabi said.(NAN)
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