… Former Speaker hails monarch’s leadership, wisdom and service to Egbaland
… Ajibola says appointment will strengthen traditional institutions in Ogun
… Egbetokun expresses confidence in Alake’s capacity to lead council effectively
The former Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Tunji Egbetokun, and the Special Assistant to the Ogun State Governor, Hon. Suleiman Mujaid Ajibola, have congratulated the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, His Royal Majesty Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, CFR, on his inauguration as Chairman of the Ogun State Council of Obas.
Egbetokun, in a congratulatory message personally signed by him and issued on Thursday, described the development as a well-deserved recognition of the monarch’s exemplary leadership, wisdom and longstanding contributions to Egbaland and Ogun State.
The former Speaker, who is also an All Progressives Congress chieftain, said the elevation of the Alake to the leadership of the state’s council of traditional rulers was a testament to his stature as a respected custodian of Yoruba culture and an advocate for peace and unity.
He described Oba Gbadebo as a father to all and a monarch whose reign has contributed to the preservation of the cultural heritage of Egbaland while promoting unity and development across the state.
According to Egbetokun, the Alake’s wealth of experience and understanding of traditional institutions would provide purposeful leadership for the Council of Obas and further strengthen the role of traditional rulers in addressing issues affecting communities.
He said the new responsibility would also provide an opportunity for traditional institutions to contribute more effectively to governance, peacebuilding, community development and the preservation of Yoruba values.
Egbetokun stated, “With profound respect and joy, we heartily congratulate our father, the custodian of our heritage and culture, His Royal Majesty, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, CFR, the Alákè and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, on this historic inauguration.”
He added that the Alake’s new position was befitting of his status and record of service, expressing confidence that his tenure would strengthen cooperation among traditional rulers across Ogun State.
Traditional institutions remain relevant
The former Speaker also extended his congratulations to the people of Egbaland and Ogun State, describing the development as a reminder of the continuing relevance of traditional institutions in maintaining stability and supporting community development.
He noted that traditional rulers remain important stakeholders in grassroots governance, particularly in conflict resolution, peacebuilding, cultural preservation and mobilising communities for development.
Egbetokun prayed that the new responsibility would bring the Alake greater honour and fulfilment, while expressing hope that his tenure as chairman would be peaceful, impactful and beneficial to the people of Ogun State.
Similarly, Ajibola congratulated the monarch on his inauguration, describing the appointment as a significant development for the traditional institution in the state.
The governor’s aide said the choice of the Alake to chair the Ogun State Council of Obas reflects the confidence placed in his leadership and experience, adding that the monarch’s role would be crucial in promoting unity and peaceful coexistence among traditional institutions and communities.
Ajibola urged the Alake to use his new position to advance collaboration among the state’s traditional rulers and strengthen the relationship between traditional institutions and government.
He also called for continued support for initiatives that promote community development, cultural heritage and peaceful resolution of disputes across Ogun State.
The inauguration of the Alake as Chairman of the Ogun State Council of Obas places him at the head of the body responsible for providing a collective platform for traditional rulers to engage with government and address issues affecting traditional institutions and their communities.
Egbetokun concluded his message with prayers for the monarch’s long reign, saying, “Congratulations, Kabiyesi! Igba odun, odun kan. Ki ade pe lori, ki bata pe lese.”
