Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has charged the Elempe of Tapa, Oba Sunday Oyekanmi Titiloye (Abioje I), to work for the development of his community.

The Governor gave the charge during the presentation of Staff and Instruments of Office to the Elempe at Tapa Community High School, Tapa, Ibarapa North Local Government Area.

This was contained in a press release by the Special Adviser (Media) to the Governor, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, on Monday.

Makinde, represented by his deputy Alhaji Adebayo Lawal, reiterated the commitment of the current administration in the State to improving the traditional institution.

He said the process of selecting the new Elempe of Tapa was a demonstration of the Government’s fidelity to transparency and the rule of law.

“As we gather to celebrate this momentous occasion, I charge Oba Titiloye Oyekanmi to embrace the responsibilities that come with this exalted position.

“I implore him to work closely with the Government to address the pressing needs of our community, including education, healthcare, security and economic development.

“By doing so, we can create a brighter future for our people and ensure the continued prosperity of Tapa.

“In particular, I urge Oba Titilayo Oyekanmi to take bold steps to tackle the scourges of kidnapping, banditry, and land grabbing that have plagued our community.

“Our Government is committed to supporting him in this endeavor, and we expect his full cooperation in eradicating these menaces.

“As Oba Titilayo Oyekanmi begins his reign, I remind him that leadership is a sacred trust that requires wisdom, compassion and integrity.

“I encourage the Elempe of Tapa to listen to the voices of his people, to be a unifying force, and to lead by example.

“His reign should be characterised by grace, humility and a deep commitment to the well-being of all,” the Deputy Governor stated in the release.

Earlier in his welcome address, the State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Chief Ademola Ojo, congratulated the people of Tapa.

He prayed that the reign of the new Elempe of Tapa would usher in economic development and prosperity.

He said: “Today, we come together to commemorate the coronation and official presentation of the Staff of Office to His Royal Majesty, Oba Sunday Titiloye Oyekanmi, Elempe of Tapa.

“Oba Titiloye Oyekanmi is an esteemed monarch who embodies the treasured cultural heritage of our land.

“This historic event serves as a pivotal moment in the chronicle of Tapa, signifying the passage of authority and leadership to a new era under the reign of our revered oba.

“The ceremonial presentation of the Staff of Office symbolises wisdom, valour and unity, bestowing upon His Royal Majesty the solemn duty of shepherding his people towards a brighter and more prosperous future.”

In his acceptance speech, the Elempe of Tapa promised to perform his duties with the fear of God. He said he will seek to promote peace, tranquility, socio-economic balance and social justice for the people of Tapa.

Oba Oyekanmi also assured of engaging the Government, at both State and Local Government levels, towards the development of the area.

Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, on Friday, presented the staff and instrument of office to the Alaawe of Aawe, Oba Cornelius Taiwo Oladokun, charging him to collaborate with Government to improve security in his domain.

The Governor, who made the presentation through the Deputy Governor, Barr. Bayo Lawal, said his administration has done something unprecedented in Afijio Local Government by presenting a staff of office to Oba Oladokun, who mounted the throne in 1991, about 48 hours after it presented a staff and instrument of office to the Onifiditi of Fiditi.

He noted that there is the need for adequate security in the State in order to sustain the progress and development that his Government has brought about, urging the Alaawe and other traditional rulers to collaborate with the Government on intelligence gathering.

He also charged the traditional rulers to cooperate with one another, stating that development would be unattainable without cooperation and collaboration.
He said: “Today’s event is a combination of activities that have begun between 1991 and today. The Alaawe mounted the throne in 1991 but the staff of office is being given this afternoon.
“We thank God Almighty for sparing our lives, particularly the lives of Oba Oladokun and his queens to witness this occasion.

“Within 48 hours, the Oyo State Government has performed wonders in Afijio Local Government. We presented a staff of office to the Onifiditi within this local government. And, today, we are presenting a staff of office to Oba Oladokun here in Aawe.
“We congratulate every indigene and resident of Afijio Local Government, especially here in Awe.

“As the Kabiyesi has received the staff of office, it is the beginning of another journey. What we desire here is real development and I appreciate the fact that this is an elitist environment. The traditional leaders are well-read and exposed to the realities on ground.
“We need adequate security for the enhancement of progress and development that we want to see here, which our Government has been ensuring.

“But I want to urge you, Kabiyesi, to improve on the security, because without security, there cannot be development that we all yearn for. When we see something, let us say something. Report strange faces to concerned authorities, as this is a major challenge for our people.
“Let us work together in the aspect of intelligence gathering, as the issue of security is not all about carrying guns.

“The second thing we need here is cooperation, especially amongst the traditional rulers. To experience development without cooperation would not be easy. So, I want our fathers, who are seated here, to cooperate with the traditional rulers so that we can progress in this local government and at the State level too.”

The Governor also used the occasion to rally intending investors in the agriculture and agribusiness sector to come and do business in the State, stressing that Aawe is a fertile belt for farming.
“Equally, we want groups that are interested in farming entrepreneurship to come together and speak in one voice. With this, when they approach the Government, it will be easy to attend to their needs.”

Earlier, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Ademola Ojo, congratulated the Alaawe, describing the presentation of staff and instrument of office to him as an historical event that will go into the annals of Aawe.

He called on all indigenes and residents of the community to join hands with Oba Oladokun to move Aawe town into a brighter future.
“This historical event marks a significant turning point in the annals of Awe, as we witness the transfer of authority and leadership to a new generation.

“This will entrust him with the responsibility of guiding his people towards a brighter future. As we present this instrument of power, we reaffirm our timeless values that have defined Aawe for centuries.

“May this moment serve as a catalyst for unity, progress and prosperity and may his reign be characterized with compassion and grace,” Ojo said.

The event was attended by top government functionaries, former and serving members of the Oyo State House of Assembly and chieftains of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo Zone.

Traditional rulers who attended the event included the Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Olusola Alao; Aseyin of Iseyin, Oba Olawale Oyebola; Onpetu of Ijeru, Oba Sunday Oyediran; and Akinbio of Ilora, Oba Stephen Oparinde, among others.

The Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has set up a committee for the coronation and presentation of staff of office to the new Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.

The committee is headed by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Mr Ademola Ojo.

This was disclosed by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, who is also a member of the committee.

Other cabinet members in the committee are Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, Mrs Toyin Balogun.

The coronation committee also include the son of the incoming Olubadan, Prince Folaseke Owolabi Olakulehin, Chief Dr. Onikepo Akande CON, His Royal Majesty Oba Abiodun Kola-Daisi, His Royal Majesty Oba Lateef Gbadamosi Adebimpe, Chief Hazeem Gbolarumi, Mr Toye Arulogun, Bishop Ademola Moradeyo, CP Sunday Odukoya (Rtd.), Mogaji Abduljeleel Adanla and Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Ramota Agberemi-Dabo.

Recall that Governor Seyi Makinde approved the nomination by the Olubadan-In-Council of Oba Olakulehin as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland and subsequently fixed July 12 for the coronation and presentation of the Staff of Office.

Oyo State Governor ‘Seyi Makinde on Monday officially flagged off the distribution of assorted commodities aimed at providing support to vulnerable members of the society.

The assorted food items which were drawn from the National Strategic Reserve of the Federal Government include; 25,740 bags of maize (50kg) and 5,280 bag of Garri (25kg).

The ceremony which held at the State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, featured symbolic presentation to Local Government Chairmen for onward distribution at the 33 local council areas.

The State Governor, Seyi Makinde, who received the commodities at the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Agodi Secretariat in Ibadan, the State capital, warned the 33 Local Government chairmen in the State not to share the commodities among their political class.

He stated that the distribution would be a test of transparency on the part of the new executive chairmen across the 33 LGAs. He emphasized that the gesture was imperative to engender the culture of accountability.

Furthermore, Governor Makinde highlighted the proactive measures taken by his administration to enhance social protection frameworks while reiterating his unwavering commitment to sustainable development goals, stressing the imperative of building resilient communities through targeted interventions and strategic partnership and collaboration.

The Governor emphasized the importance of collective collaboration towards bringing an end to the security challenges especially in parts of the State that are largely agrarian such as Oke-ogun, Ibarapa, Ogbomoso and Oyo geopolitical zones maintaining that without collective efforts, it would be impossible to achieve the desired results in the fight against criminal elements such as kidnappers, bandits, and armed robbers.

Earlier in his address shortly before officially handing over the food items to the State Government, the Director General, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) Zubaida Umar represented by the agency’s South West Zonal Coordinator, Adewale Stephen, the gesture was part of the commitments of President Bola Tinubu towards the welfare and well-being of Nigerians especially to provide necessary support during the economic hardship.

“The Renewed Hope Agenda, Mr. President approved the release of 42,000MT of assorted food commodities from the National Strategic Reserve under the custody of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMOA&FS).

“The assorted food commodities include maize, millet, sorghum, and garri.

Distinguished stakeholders, after sharing the commodities and successfully transporting the quantities allocated to Oyo State, today we are here to hand-

Over the food items to the State Government for distribution to the identified deserving beneficiaries in the communities through the constituted Committees in each LGA.

“Please note that membership of the Committee in each LGA is made up of the Chairman of the LGA, State Emergency Management Agency, a Traditional Ruler, Department of State Services, Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, Faith-Based Organizations (JNI & CAN), Nigerian Union of Local Government

Employees, Nigerian Red Cross Society, Women Associations, Persons With Disability Groups, Youth Associations, Principals of Boarding Schools, Civil Society Organizations and the Media.

“It is worthy of note that based on the allocation table, Oyo State has been allocated: i. 1,287MT of Maize (25,740 bags of 50kg) ii. 132MT of Garri (5,280 bags of 25kg). The above food items will be shared equally to all the LGAS in the State.” Umar said.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Otunba Ademola Ojo commended the President for the gesture, describing it as a recognizing food security as a fundamental human rights and a key pillar of societal stability.

The Commissioner commended Governor Seyi Makinde for his giant strides in the State under different initiatives and programs targeted at the vulnerable members of the State particularly at the grassroots stressing that the FG food support would complement efforts of the State Government while calling for all hands to be on deck.

“Going down memory lane, Nigeria has witnessed unprecedented challenges occasioned by the global economic recession which has greatly affected the economic well-being of the citizens. This impacted negatively on all States of the federation. Hence, the resolve of all tiers of Government to design social programmes aimed at ameliorating the hardship through distribution of food items amongst other benefits. Otunba Ojo said.

Hon. Oyedokun Timothy, the executive chairman of Ogbomoso South Local Government, who spoke on behalf of other Council Chairmen commended the collaboration between the state and federal Government which resulted in the provision of the economic support food items assuring that the distribution guideline and template would not be compromised in the distribution process.

Other key stakeholders including traditional and religious leaders in their separate remarks lamented the impact of security challenge on food security resulting into the current hike in cost of essential commodities and foodstuffs across the country while calling for immediate end to the killings and banditry that have plagued parts of Oyo State unabated

Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has approved the appointment of Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakuleyin as the 43rd Olubadan of lbadanland.

The Governor gave the approval in a memo signed on June 14, 2024, in exercise of the powers conferred on him by Section 19 (Cap 28) Law of Oyo State 2000 as amended.

According to a statement by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Honourable Olusegun Olayiwola, the approval is a culmination of a series of processes stipulated by the extant laws of the State regarding ascension to royal thrones.

The statement added that the Governor congratulated the new Olubadan, praying that his tenure will birth greater developments in Ibadanland and Oyo State as a whole.

The Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde has on Monday presented certificate instrument of office to some newly elevated Baales in the State.

The Governor said this through the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Olusegun Olayiwola, while presenting the Part II Recognized Chieftaincy certificates to twelve Baales, who are now lesser Obas for their different domains. The event took place at the Oba Adeyemi Mini Stadium, Ode Aremo, Oyo Town.

The twelve elevated Chiefs are: Chief Olaniyi Adeoye Adegboye 111, (Oloodu of Ojongbodu, Oyo); Chief David Ademola Oyediran (Alaguo of Aguo, Oyo); Chief Samuel Olusegun Odurinde (Alajagba of Ajagba, Oyo); Chief Isiaka Tella Titiloye (Ona Isokun of Isokun, Oyo); Chief Salawu Abu Oyeniran (Onigudugbu of Gudugbu, Oyo); Chief Jimoh Ajiboye Oyeleye (Alakeetan of Akeetan, Oyo).

Others are: Chief Ganiyu Ajiboye Busari (Alago- Oja, Oyo); Chief Abel Olufemi Oyekan (Elepe of Iseke); Chief Oyeleke Yusuf Isola (Onidode of Idode); Chief Tijani Ajekigbe Okunshinde (Alapaara of Apaara 1); Chief Adebisi Basiru Adebayo (Olotefon of Otefon, Oyo); and Chief Fakayode Moses Alowonle (Onimeleke of Imeleke 1). Oyo).

They are now qualified to attend the meetings of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs at the Parliament Building, Government Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan.

In attendance were some of the Oyomesi kingmakers including the Iba Samu of Oyo, High Chief Lamidi Oyewàle; the Agbaakin of Oyo, High Chief Asimiyu Atanda; the Baba Iyaji of Oyo, Chief Mukaila Afonja; the forner Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly Senator Monsurat Sunmonu; the former Speaker of the House of Assembly during the administration of Late Adebayo Alao-Akala (Rt. Hon. Moroof Atilola); and the four local government Chairmen in Oyo Town (Akeem Olukitobi- Oyo West; Wahab Adetunji- Atiba; Sola Oluokun- Oyo East; and Olufemi Aikomo- Afijio), among many others.

Presenting the certificate instrument of office to the part IIl (minor) Chieftaincy to part ll recognised chiefs, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola on behalf of the Executive Governor of Oyo State, His Excellency, Engr. Oluseyi Makinde charged the traditional ruler not to act beyond his capacity or responsibility.

He also stressed the importance of oneness among the traditional ruler and the good people of Oyoland.

“Today, we gathered to recognise the contributions of our minor chiefs who have tirelessly served our communities. Their dedication and commitment to our cultural heritage have earned them this well deserved elevation to part ll recognised chieftaincies.

“This upgrade not only brings honour to their communities but also serves as a testament to our Government’s continued support for our cultural heritage and traditional institution.

“I am pleased to announce that the above minor chiefs have been approved for elevation to part ll recognised chieftaincies.

“Their certificates, duly signed by His Excellency, Engr. Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde are presented to them today, marking their new status as recognised chiefs in our State. As we celebrate this achievement, I want to emphasize that our Government has zero tolerance for issues like land grabbing, banditry and kidnapping.

“We expect our newly recognised chiefs to ensure that their various communities are well secured and that any form of suspicious activity is reported promptly to the State Government. We believe that traditional institutions play a vital role in maintaining peace and security on our communities.

“As recognised chiefs, you are expected to work closely with the State Government to ensure that our communities are safe and secure for all inhabitants. Let us continue to work together to preserve an enrich our cultural heritage for future generations

“I congratulate our newly recognised and thank them for their services to our State.

“In conclusion, I urge our chiefs to continue to uphold the values of our cultural heritage and to work tirelessly for the betterment of our communities.

The Commissioner added that, the council chairmen are henceforth saddled with the responsibility of taking charge of the security situation in their domains.

Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has declared that the late 42nd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Dr Mohood Lekan Balogun, lived a fulfilled life and would be remembered fondly for his contributions to the growth and development of Ibadan and Oyo State.

Makinde said: “One thing I want us to take home today is that Kabiyesi Lekan Balogun and I did what people thought Napoleon could not do.

“The Executive Arm of Government and the Legislature, on the 26th of May, 2023, amended the Chieftaincy law of Oyo State, so that the Governor does not need to go to the Council of Chiefs to amend the declaration of traditional rulers.

“Kabiyesi Olubadan and I amended the Ibadan Chieftaincy Declaration. Those who are yet to see the document can go and look for it to confirm. That is the declaration to enthrone the Olubadan of Ibadanland.

“I have seen the recommendation of the Olubadan-in-Council and I have accepted it. Oba Olakulehin would be enthroned soon, because due process has been followed.”

The Governor equally condoled with the family of Oba Dr Balogun and the people of Ibadan and Oyo State, urging them to take solace in the good life led by the late Olubadan.

“So, I want to once again thank you all and to console the family. We all lost Baba but we should take solace in the fact that Baba lived a very fulfilled life,” the Governor said.

Earlier, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Olanike Adeyemo, extolled the virtues of Oba Balogun, who she described as an intellectual and a patriot.

She praised the late monarch’s dedication to the progress and growth of the State.

Speaking on behalf of the Balogun family, younger brother to the late monarch, who also served as Senator representing Oyo South District between 2019 and 2023, Dr Kola Balogun, lauded Governor Makinde for his support for the late Olubadan and his family as well as the befitting burial given to the deceased Royal Father.

The event was attended by the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barr. Bayo Lawal and his wife, Mrs Ajibola Lawal, Acting PDP National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagum; PDP Deputy National Chairman (South), Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja; former Deputy Governors of Oyo State, Engr. Hamid Gbadamosi, Chief Moses Alake and Alhaji Hazeem Gbolarumi.

Also in attendance were the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin; Chief Judge of Oyo State, Justice Iyabo Yerima, represented by Justice Akinniyi Akintola; Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Olanike Adeyemo; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Segun Ogunwuyi and the Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni.

Former Chief of Army Staff and Nigeria Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, Lieutenant-General Tukur Buratai; General Officer Commanding, 2 Division, Major General Obinna Onubogu; Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta States, Alhaji Dawud Makanjuola Akinola, traditional leaders, religious leaders and captains of industries were also in attendance.

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.