The Osun government has presented staves of office and certificates of promotion into the Osun State Council of Obas to five traditional rulers in Ile-Ife.

The event took place at the palace of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, in Ile-Ife on Tuesday.

The royal fathers are the Obalufe of Ifeland, Idowu Adediwura; the Lowa Adimula of Ife, Adekola Adeyeye; the Elesinnla of Oosa-Alutu of Ife, Ilesanmi Olawale; the Onifeguwa of Ifeguwa, Adedire Adewole; and the Alade-Okin of Oriade Town, Lekan Fashesin.

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun, represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Dosu Babatunde, congratulated the traditional rulers on their elevation.

The governor urged them to continue promoting peace, unity and development within their respective domains.

He noted that the present administration remains committed to grassroots development through the execution of critical infrastructure projects, road construction and other developmental initiatives across the state.

The governor called on the citizenry to continue supporting his government, stressing that his administration has demonstrated its commitment to improving the people’s welfare through impactful governance and development-oriented programmes.

In his remarks, the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Olufemi Ogundun, admonished the newly elevated traditional rulers to imbibe the spirit of humility.

Mr Ogundun urged them not to view their promotion as a basis for rivalry or superiority among members of the traditional institution.

He emphasised that the traditional institution thrives on mutual respect, cooperation and unity.

The permanent secretary urged the traditional rulers to work harmoniously in the collective interest of their communities and the preservation of Yoruba cultural heritage.

Speaking, Mr Adediwura expressed appreciation to the governor and Ooni of Ife for their support and commitment to strengthening traditional institutions across the state.

He described the recognition as a significant milestone and pledged that they would continue to promote peace, cultural values and development in their domains.

Similarly, the Lowa Adimula of Ife assured the government and the people of Osun that they would discharge their responsibilities attached to the office with diligence, integrity and a strong sense of duty.

Mr Adeyeye pledged not to disappoint the confidence reposed in them and promised to continue contributing to the advancement of their community and the traditional institution. 

(NAN)