Oyo State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, has met with the chairmen of the 33 Local Government Areas of the State, who were recently sworn-in by the State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde.
Olayiwola, who met the chairmen at the Ministry, on Wednesday, charged them to be of good conduct and to serve their people with commitment and focus.
According to Olayiwola, Governor Makinde has in the last five years been running a people-oriented government and it is expected that the chairmen will follow the Governor’s example by delivering the dividends of democracy to their respective councils.
He said: “We thank God for yet another opportunity to swear in a new set of 33 Local Government chairmen in Oyo State. You will recall that immediately after the Governor assumed office; he conducted an election into the Local Government areas in the State and promptly swore them in at that time.
“At the expiration of the tenure of those chairmen, another election was conducted making it the second in the life of this administration and that election produced you. This had never happened before in the State.
“I assure you that by the grace of God, before the end of this administration, we will swear-in the third tranche of chairmen in this administration.
“So, we have come to welcome you, to give you tips and orient you on how to govern your Local Government areas. We have come to share our own experiences with you and make sure we put you on the right track before you move.
“I believe that with what we have done here, we are sure you would do your best to see to the development of your various LGs.”
Fielding questions from newsmen, the commissioner added that those who were re-elected would also be strategic in sharing experiences with the new chairmen, expressing the confidence that the chairmen would deliver development at their various councils.
“Out of the 33 chairmen in the last dispensation, only 12 were re-elected, while 21 did not return. Those who returned will share their experiences with their colleagues that are just coming in. And with the tips we have given them today, I believe the sky will be the limit for the developmental activities we will witness in this State during this tenure.
“I can also assure you that very soon, we will conduct an induction training for all of them. They will be lectured on how to carry out their responsibilities as they assume office,” he added.
Speaking earlier, the chairman of Egbeda Local Government, Hon. Sikiru Sanda, appreciated Governor Makinde for giving the newly-elected chairmen the opportunity to serve.
He stated that the inaugural meeting with the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters was speedy and charged the chairmen to be of good conduct, assuring residents of the State of more dividends of democracy.
According to Sanda, the present crop of council chairmen are ready, prepared, competent and ready to serve the people of their respective Local Governments.
Sanda said: “First, we want to give our appreciation to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, for giving us the opportunity to be sworn-in again as elected Local Government chairmen.
“Today is our inaugural meeting and the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters has charged us on the issue of conduct. I see this as a speedy commencement of the new administration as far as Local Government is concerned.
“So, we want to assure the good people of Oyo State to expect bigger dividends of democracy from all the Local Government chairmen, because I believe the crop of elected chairmen we have on board are ready to deliver. They are prepared for the job and would perform excellently well beyond the people’s expectations.
“Some of our colleagues could be new in office but not new as far as the administration of Governor Makinde is concerned. Many of them are from different endeavours ranging from public administration, commerce and all of that.
“All of them are competent and we don’t have any doubt they are going to perform well. Apart from that, there will be training and retraining and the Commissioner has assured us that there will be a 3-day induction shortly.”

Following the recent swearing-in of the council bosses and leaders for the 33 Local Government areas of the State, Oyo State Government on Wednesday said plan is underway way to organised a three days induction trainings for the political leaders.

The target include the 351 councillors, the 33 Local Government chairmen and their 33 Vice Chairmen so as to ensure wider spread of the dividends of democracy at the grassroots.

The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Segun Olayiwola made the disclosure while briefing the press shortly after the maiden meeting of the Commissioner with the newly sworn-in Chairmen.

The meeting which held at the Board Room of the Ministry was attended by the Local Government chairmen among others leaders.

He said the essence of the over five hours of meeting was to welcome the council bosses, give them tips and orientation on how to govern their Local Government as well as to share experiences with them so as to ensure they are put on the right track before they move.

Olayiwola said “We thank God for yet another opportunity to swear in a set of 33 Local Government chairmen in Oyo State, you will recall that immediately after the resumption of office of Governor Seyi Makinde, he conducted an election into the Local Government of Oyo State and swore them in at the time.

“The tenure of the elected Chairmen across the party expires and another election was conducted making it the second time in the series of this administration and which has never happened before in Oyo State, a Governor swearing-in two batches of Chairmen and by the grave of God, I assure you that before the end of this administration, the tenure of the Chairmen will end and the third batch of Chairmen will emerge and be sworn in.

“So, we have come to welcome them, we have come to give them tips and orientation on how to govern their Local Government. We have come to share our experiences with them and to make sure we put them on the right track before they move. And by the grace of God, with what we have been doing since morning, we are sure that they are going to do their best to see to the development of their various Local Governments.”

He said, although only 12 out of the 33 council bosses were re-elected with 11 others coming on board afresh, the meeting provided opportunity for rubbing minds together and sharing of ideas to ensure even development across the Council areas in the State.

“Well, only 12 of them are returning, out of the 33 council bosses. 11 of them did not return. So, I can assure you that they will share their own experiences with their colleagues just coming and with the tips and words we have given them today, I can assure you that the sky is the limit to their developmental activities that we will witness across Oyo State even in this tenure.

“I can also assure you that very soon, you will join us as we are going to do induction trainings for all of them. All the elected Councils, the 351 of them, all elected 33 Chairmen and 33 Vice Chairmen will be given an induction course that will span three days where we will saddle and charge them with their responsibilities as it should be with their office and as they resume. It would be a focus on how they will impact on the society.

“We are going to do it as soon as approval is granted by the Governor, we will go ahead”, he added.

Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, the Chairman, Egbeda Local Government who doubles as the Chairman, ALGON, Oyo State, Sikiru Sanda assures the people that all the chairmen are ready to deliver on the mandate in the interest of development in the State.

Sanda said “Firstly, we want to give our appreciation to Governor Seyi Makinde for giving us the opportunity to be sworn in as the elected Local Government Chairmen and re-sworn in. Today is our inaugural meeting with the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, who have really charged us on what to do and how to go about it.

“This is a kind of speedy commencement for the new administration as far as the Local Government is concerned. We want to assure the good people of Oyo State that they should expect bigger dividends of democracy from all the council chairmen.

“With the crop of the chairmen that are here today, they are ready for the job, they have planned for the job, they have their blueprint already and I want to tell you that they will perform excellently, even beyond the expectations of the electorate.

“The council bosses who are new in office are not new in governance and administration. Many of them came from different fields of human endeavours be it political, entrepreneurship, public administration among others. I want to believe many of them are competent in their various fields and we don’t have any doubt that they will perform excellently.

“Aside from that, I want to assure you that there will be room for training and retraining as it has been planned by the Commissioner who have even assured us of the forthcoming training induction that will come up shortly.”

The Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, on Friday, inaugurated thirty-three Local Government chairmen and Vice chairmen, urging them to uphold rule of law as his administration is very clear in its dream for better Oyo State.

Governor Makinde, who was represented by his Deputy, Barrister Abdul-Raheem Adebayo Lawal, equally noted that the Local Government Administration cannot be undermined because of its constitutional obligation as a catalyst for sustainable development at the grass root.

He stated these during the inauguration ceremony for the new council chairmen and Vice chairmen held at the House of Chiefs, Agodi, Secretariat.

The Governor maintained that his administration is presenting an all inclusive agenda based on his vision to move the State to greater heights through good governance for the development of the people; adequate democratic practice and total engagement with stakeholders with a view to delivering the dividends of democracy to the teeming population in the “Pacesetter’s State”.

According to him, as a responsive and purpose driven administration, we were committed to hold election into the various Councils as and when due.

Governor Makinde congratulated the good people of Oyo State who deemed it fit to elect credible people as their representatives in the just concluded Local Government elections conducted by the Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission (OYSIEC), stating that the election was adjudged to be credible and fair in all ramifications.

He said: “I want to extend my warm felicitations to all the newly elected Chairmen and Vice-Chairmen whose election is a clear indication of your acceptability at the grassroots in view of your past dedication, integrity and tenacity at ensuring development at the various Local Government Areas.

“As a Government we are very clear in our dream for better Oyo State. Similarly, you must all brace up to replicate same at the grassroots level by embracing people-sensitive and developmental programmes aimed at bringing democratic dividends to our people. It is my hope that you will continue to consolidate on past achievements.

“It is evident that the task before this august gathering is beyond mere rhetorics as you’re coming on board must bring the desired and envisioned development to the grassroots in our dear State. As you start this new chapter, you are enjoined to collaborate and work diligently towards building lasting legacies with a view to making life better for the good people of the State.

“The grassroots communities are the heartbeat of our State. Let us prioritize their needs and aspirations in our governance strategies. Always keep in mind the trust reposed in all of you.

“May your tenure be marked by transformative initiatives, impactful projects and an unwavering dedication to the service of our State and its people.

“For the umpteenth time and for the purpose of emphasis, principle of Democratic Tenants must be upheld at the grassroot level, especially in the administration of your various Local Government. There must be no room for excuses. You must bear in mind at all times that upholding Rule of Law is key to Democracy and Civil Administration.

“On this note, I now pronounce the thirty-three Local Government Chairmen and Vice-Chairmen inaugurated to the glory of God and for the benefit of the good people of Oyo State. Congratulations once again and thank for your attention.”

Earlier in his remarks, the commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy matters, Hon. Segun Olayiwola, who welcomed the council chairmen and others at the ceremony said the just concluded Local Government election marked a significant point in our democratic journey, thus affirming our commitment to fairness, transparency and above all accountability.

According to him, it is also a testimonial for this administration’s commitment to good governance and adherence to the Rule of Law.

While extending his deep congratulations to all the newly elected Chairmen and Vice-Chairmen whose victory at the polls attested to the fact that you are all impeccable grassroot mobilizers, Olayiwola noted that their dedication, unwavering belief in their abilities to bring about the desired development at the grassroot led to their emergence as Chairmen and Vice-Chairmen respectively.

He expressed optimism that they will meet the expectations of the people of Oyo State.

He said: “As you embark on this noble responsibility, I urge you to work hand in hand with your respective executives, utilizing their expertise and fostering collaboration to ensure that the dividends of democracy reach every nooks and crannies of your respective Local Governments.

“It is the dawn of a new chapter, you are urged to work assiduously with unwavering commitment to building a more virile Local Government devoid of acrimony or rancor towards building a better future for all citizens of the Pacesetter’s State.

“At this juncture, I wish to appreciate His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Oluseyi Makinde FNSE for his unwavering commitment and vision to make Oyo State stand head high amongst the comity of nations in order to compete favourably with our compeers all over the world.

“May your tenure witness unprecedented development at the grassroots.Congratulations once again.”

The event was attended by the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Debo Ogundoyin ably represented the majority leader of the House, Hon. Sanjo Adedoyin; Chief Judge of Oyo state, PDP Deputy National Vice Chairman, Ambassador Taofeeq Arapaja; Former Oyo Senator, Monsurat Sumonu; Chief of Staff, Hon. Segun Ogunwuyi; Head of Service, Mrs

Olubunmi Oni; Deputy Chief of Staff, Hon. Fola Oyekunle; Elders and Advisory Council Chairmen, Dr Saka Balogun and Barrister Ayorinde respectively.

Others were Commissioners, royal fathers, PDP members and chieftains; spiritual fathers; well wishers and host of others.

The Oyo State Government has elevated Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, High Chief Senator Rashidi Ladoja, to a beaded-crown-wearing Oba in line with the amended Olubadan Chieftaincy Declaration.

At the ceremony, held in Ibadan, the Oyo State Acting Governor, Barr. Bayo Lawal, stated that the administration of Governor ‘Seyi Makinde will continue to prioritise efforts that will enhance the status of the royal system in the State and make it a worthy reference point for other South-West States.

At the event held at the Olubadan-in-Council Chamber of the new Olubadan Palace, Oke Aremo, Ibadan, the Acting Governor maintained that the occasion put an end to all the controversies surrounding the issue of beaded crown in Ibadanland and has shown that the traditional system is capable of reinventing itself without external interference.

Presenting the Staff of Office and the Certificate to Oba (Senator) Rashidi Ladoja, the Acting Governor congratulated him on the acceptance of the beaded crown.

He said: “On behalf of the Governor of the State, I greet the people of Ibadan.

“We thank God that, today, all the controversies surrounding the issue of the beaded crown have come to an end even without external interference.

“I want to use this avenue to also thank the CCII President-General, the Aare Musulumi of Oyo, Edo and Delta and other dignitaries here present.

“Ibadan, as we all know, is a city of elites. If the city is peaceful, we believe the entire Yorubaland will be peaceful.

“In Oyo State, we believe that if we want to make progress, there must be little changes in how things should be done. Part of it is what we are doing here today. We want the royalty, monarchy to be well-founded and well-established in Oyo State.

“We believe if this is established in Oyo State, it will be a reference point in the entire Yorubaland.

“So, on behalf of the Governor of Oyo State, I have the opportunity of presenting the instrument of office to HRM Oba Rashidi Ladoja, the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, following the conferment of Obaship on him by His Imperial Majesty, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin 1, the Olubadan of Ibadandland.

“In exercise of the powers conferred on me by Cap 28 Volume 1 of the Chiefs Law of Oyo State of Nigeria, 2000, and any other powers in that behalf, I confer on you the title of Royal Majesty, Oba Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland.”

Shortly after receiving the beaded crown, staff of office and the certificate of office, the newly-elevated Oba, Senator Ladoja thanked Governor Makinde and the State Ggovernment for their efforts in ensuring that peace reigns in Ibadanland.

He equally thanked the indigenes of Ibadanland for their support, praying for the progress of Ibadanland and Oyo State.

The event had in attendance members of the Olubadan-in-Council; Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Ademola Ojo; Commissioner for Public Works and Transport, Prof. Daud Shangodoyin; Commissioner for Environment, Honourable Mojeed Mogbonjubola; the Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo, Delta States, Alhaji Daud Makanjuola; President-General of CCII, Barrister Ajeniyi Ajewole; former CCII President-General, Chief Bayo Oyero and Alhaji Nureni Akanbi, among other dignitaries.

The Oyo State Government has revealed that Local Government autonomy can only be sustainable if the Federal Government steps in to take up financial responsibilities for public primary schools and medical institutions to relieve the financial burdens of the State Government.

This was disclosed this when the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade visited the Local Government Commissioner, Hon. Segun Olayiwola in his office on a fact finding mission.

He noted that the salaries and allowances of teachers and Local Government employees in Oyo State amount to over five billion naira every month, which the State has been managing judiciously to bring dividends of democracy to the grassroots.

Acknowledging Governor Makinde’s commitment to traditional institutions in the State, the Commissioner said the imminent completion of the palace of Olubadan of Ibadan land is possible largely because of the personal intervention of the Government.

The commissioner praised the Governor for working closely with traditional institutions towards strengthening security architecture across the State, curbing activities of illegal miners through community based approach and stopping the menace of land grabbers and herdsmen.

Hon. Olayiwola disclosed that Makinde’s administration has enthroned imperial majesties, royal majesties, royal highnesses and Baales running to over 60 in a bid to secure the territorial integrity of Oyo State.

Speaking on the vacant Alaafin of Oyo stool, the Commissioner said Government is committed to the age long tradition of the selection process.

He said the Government will ensure the integrity of the selection process and prevent any form of compromises in choosing a new Alaafin of Oyo for the people.

Regarding the upcoming April 27th Local Government election, the Commissioner assured the public that the Ministry is working tirelessly to ensure that the election is free and fair.

Reiterating the Ministry’s commitment to upholding democracy and good governance in Oyo State, the Commissioner stressed the importance of a peaceful electoral process.

He further urged all stakeholders, including political parties, candidates, and voters, to abide by the rules and regulations of the electoral commission.

The Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON) in Oyo State felicitates with the Commissioner for Local Government and Chiefitancy Matters, Hon. Segun Olayiwola on his birthday anniversary.

In a felicitation message, signed by the association chairman, Hon. Sanda Sikiru Oyedele on behalf of all the 33 Local Government chairmen in Oyo State wished him more blessings of age, good health and greater heights in the service of the State.

The statement said, “We are super proud to share the testimonies of your revolutionary leadership ideals that have over time changed the phase of governance at the grassroots. We are eternally grateful to God who has continued to bless you with good health, sound mind in the course of your duty to the State has hon. Commissioner”.

“Your contributions to the growth and development of the State is laudable and worthy of emulating. As a body, we appreciate your immense support for the grassroots at all times. Indeed, you are an embodiment of a true party man.”

“We thank you for the ideals of patriotism, commitment, and selflessness which has characterized your public service records over the years. We salute your sagacity and immense support even as we join your followers, admirers, political associates, protégés and well-wishers in praying God to bless you further so that you will continue to be a blessing to mankind.”

“We assure you of our prayers and best wishes as you set a pace in the State of desire for passion for service to humanity,” he said.

…as gov Makinde warns members against breach of peace

Oyo State Government on Thursday officially inaugurated the new executive members of the Park Management System (PMS) eight months after the appointment of the former secretary of the PMS, Mr Tomiwa Omolewa, as it’s new Chairman and Mr. Kasali Lawal as secretary in the State.

Recall that the State Governor, Seyi Makinde, hours after he was sworn in for a second term in office, ordered the dissolution of the disciplinary committee of the PMS led by Mr Mukaila Lamidi, popularly called Auxiliary.

The newly inaugurated members of the PMS are; Alhaji Tomiwa Omolewa, (Chairman), Alhaji Kasali Ajisafe (Secretary), Alhaji Tajudeen Jimoh (Vice Chairman) Alhaji Kamorudeen Idowu (Treasurer) and Alhaji Adeniji Tirimisiyu (Financial Secretary) among other State executive members

At the swearing in ceremony held at the House of Chiefs, secretariat, Ibadan, the State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Segun Olayiwola warned the newly inaugurated executive members that the State Government will hold them responsible for any act that will jeopardize the peace and progress of the State.

The Commissioner stated categorically that the State will not condone any unwholesome acts, drinking of illegal substance and other nefarious activities in the various parks.

He said the intention of the State Government is to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the PMS in the discharge of their duties at the various motor parks in the State

His words “May I seize this opportunity to advise that the Oyo State Government as your employer will forthwith hold you responsible for any act inimical to the peace and progress of Oyo State.

”The effort of the Government is intended to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of our Park Managers in the discharge of their duties at the various parks

“The implementation of the new management system is a pointer to the fact that the present administration brings to bear its all-round experience in the area of governance.

”It is noteworthy to observe that our parks serve as vital space for recreation, relaxation and community gathering, hence the need to hold accountable the man-agers of the various parks across the nooks and crannies of the State and to streamline park operations.

”Let me state categorically that the State will not condone any unwholesome acts, drinking of illegal substance and other nefarious activities in the various parks.

”At this juncture, it is pertinent to note that the administration of oaths being administered today by the State Government is meant to provide sanity to the system and to inculcate the culture of accountability in our various parks.

Hon Olayiwola, while affirming that all factions of the motor unions have been incorporated in the newly constituted executive, however urged any faction who felt omitted in the new arrangement to approach the office of the Commissioner for local Government and Chieftaincy Matters assuring that their concerns will be addressed accordingly.

In his remarks, the new Chairman of the PMS in the State, Alhaji Tomiwa Omolewa while expressing gratitude to the State Governor’ Seyi Makinde for the gesture, promised to instil sanity in the transport sector of the State as well as ensuring discipline among it’s members

Earlier in their seperate goodwill messages, the State Chairman Associations of Local Government of Nigeria, ALGON, Oyo State chapter, Hon Sikiru Sanda represented by chairman, Ibadan Northwest local government, Hon. Rahman Adepoju and Oba Hamidu Ajibade both solicited the cooperation of members of the PMS with the State Government towards ensuring peace and progress of the State.

Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, has presented the staff and instrument of office to the Asigangan of Igangan, Oba Rafiu Olaniyi Adeniyi, Ariwoola Aako II.

The Governor charged the traditional ruler to work hand in hand with his administration to develop Ibarapa zone and to tackle pressing issues including illegal mining, farmer-herder clashes, among others.

The Governor added that his administration will continue to see to the development of Ibarapa zone, adding that under Omituntun 1.0, the Government successfully linked Oke-Ogun to Ogbomoso, Ibadan and also linked Oke-Ogun to Ibarapa zone through the rehabilitation of the Iganna-Elekookan-Iganna road.

Governor Makinde, who was represented by his deputy, Barr. Abdul-Raheem Bayo Lawal, stated this on Monday at the event held at the Federal Technical College, Igangan.

He urged Oba Adeniyi to unite Igangan by exhibiting the wisdom and humility expected of a leader.

At the event, which had in attendance some members of the Oyo State Elders Council and Oyo State Advisory Council, other Government functionaries, royal fathers, the Governor said due process was observed in the selection of the new Asigangan.

He noted that he was duly nominated by the ruling house, went through successful screening, and was also accepted by the Government on recommendation.

Noting that anyone that would become a royal father must be able to fulfill those stages as enshrined in the Oyo State Chiefs Law, Makinde added that it was encouraging to see that the new Asigangan’s emergence was in adherence to tradition and the law.

The Governor said: “I congratulate the people of Igangan and I enjoin Oba Rafiu Olaniyi Adeniyi, Ariwoola Aako II, to work hand in hand with the government in tackling pressing issues such as illegal mining, land grabbing, and kidnapping, which threaten the peace and progress of the 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.

“On this note, in exercise of the power conferred 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 Rafiu Olaniyi Adeniyi, the new Asigangan of Igaganland.”

Earlier in his welcome address, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Segun Olayiwola, admonished the Asigangan of Igangan to collaborate with the government of Oyo State on the issue of insecurity, particularly land grabbing and illegal mining activities.

He reiterated Governor Makinde popular charge that residents of the State must always say something when they see something and that Government would take necessary actions before things get out of hands.

In his response, the Asigangan of Igangan expressed gratitude to God and the Governor, while he also thanked the people of Igangan and the Oyiigun Ruling House for selecting him as the new king after the demise of the immediate past king, Oba Lasisi Olawuyi Adeoye Aribiyan I.

He appealed to Governor Makinde for a befitting palace and the rehabilitation of the community’s hospitals, affirming his readiness to guarantee a peaceful cohabitation and the safety of people and property in the community.

Oba Adeniyi equally conferred on Governor Makinde the chieftaincy title of Aare Asoludero of Iganganland, saying it was in appreciation of his efforts towards the development of the town and Oyo State at large.

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 this 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 Oyo 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.

Following the January 16, 2024 explosion that rocked Bodija area of Ibadan as a result of storage of explosives by illegal miners in a resident in the area, Oyo State Government has ordered all the 33 Local Government chairmen in the State as well as traditional rulers and chiefs areas to flush out illegal miners, bandits and land grabbers in their respective council areas.

The State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon Olusegun Olayiwola who addressed journalists after a closed door meeting with the council bosses at the conference room of the ministry on Monday warmed that the State Government has zero tolerance for crime and criminality and will stop at nothing to ensure safety of lives and property of the citizens.

He said, “One major point that was extensively discussed today, is the issue of security of lives and property in Oyo State. You will recall that about three weeks ago, there was an explosion at Bodija, Ibadan which eventually turned out to be as a result of illegal activities of illegal or legal miners that are not supposed to keep such terrible equipment in residential areas.”

“As a result of this Chairmen and women in the 33 Local Government areas of Oyo State were invited to the office of the Hon. Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters today (Monday) and after the end of the meeting, the meeting decided to address the press about the outcome of the meeting.

“Security situation in Oyo State is very fluid, and as a result of this, the chairmen and chairwomen in the 33 Local Governments of Oyo State have decided that the three critical areas that the people and Government of Oyo State need to look into are in the area illegal mining, land grabbing and banditry.

“We have been coping with the issue of banditry for a while now, but unfortunately, the issue of land grabbing has taken the center stage of the insecurity of lives and property of the citizens of Oyo State now and the meeting discussed this extensively today and decided that forthwith, the chairmen and chairwomen of the Local Government are being saddled with the responsibility of taking charge of the security situations of their Local Government as the construction of the Federal Republic of Nigeria have given them the power to do as the chief security officers of their Local Government.”

“As a result of this we decided at today’s meeting that the illegal miners wherever they may be, the chairmen of various Local Government should go
after them, the men and women hunt and fish them out wherever they are.”

“This can easily be done with the collaboration, assistance and support of royal fathers and traditional chiefs all over the councils, when they see and say something, we will be able to apprehend this people.”

“Our traditional rulers and chiefs knows where these people are operating because they live amongst them and cannot deny the fact that they don’t know the works of the people living in their domain.

“The meeting of today, as a matter of urgency, have saddled the chairmen of each of the 33 Local Government to back home, hold an emergency meeting with security committees of their various Local Government and come to conclusion that the committee will serve as task force that will embark on the man hunting illegal miners, land grabbers and bandits.”

He noted that the State Government will not fold her arms and watch criminals take over the State adjudged as one of the safest in the country.

According to him, the meeting had mandated the council bosses to compulsorily hold a joint security meeting every last Thursday of the month in their respective councils beginning from February, 2024.

He said, “the outcome of such meeting must be made available to the ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters before the end of each month so that the ministry can take the decisions or findings of each of the council to the State Governor.” Seyi Makinde.

While citing the recent suspension of the Onido of Ido, Oba. Gbolagade Babalola by the State Government over alleged links with illegal miners, urged royal fathers in the State expose anyone known to be having ties with illegal miners to inform the relevant authority for prompt action.

In his remarks, the State Chairman Associations of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON) Hon. Sikiru Sanda assured the State Government that the council bosses will ensure adequate security surveillance in all the Local Governments so as to make the State not only safe for the citizens but also for local and foreign investors.

In his own remarks, the Director General, Solid Minerals Development Agency, Abiodun Oni every citizens of the State to take security issues as their responsibility and not the State Government alone while also urging traditional rulers indulging in granting letters of consent to miners without consultation with the relevant authorities to desist from the act .