Coronation: Makinde implores new Onigbeti of Igbetiland to tackle insecurity
By Adewale Owoade
Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has implored the new Onigbeti of Igbetiland, Oba Bashir Abioye, to cooperate with government to tackle illegal mining, land grabbing and kidnapping that threaten the peace and progress of Igbeti.
Makinde said this at the coronation and official presentation of instrument/staff of office to the royal majesty, the Onigbeti of Igbeti, in Olorunsogo Local Government, Igbeti, Oyo State.
Makinde, who was represented by his deputy, Bayo Lawal, said the nomination process of Oba Bashir Abioye was meticulously followed.
He commended the transparency and adherence to tradition in the selection of leaders.
“It is with great pleasure and profound honor that I stand before you today at the coronation and official presentation of the instrument of office and staff of office to his Royal Majesty, Oba Bashir Abioye, Siyanbola IV, the Onigbeti of Igbeti.
“This momentous occasion signifies the embodiment of tradition, heritage and the continuation of the legacy of leadership in our land.
“I enjoin and implore Oba Bashir Abioye 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.
“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,” Makinde said.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Abioye promised to be a better king as the people of Igbeti cherish peaceful co-existence, are law abiding, very resourceful and industrious.
“I am humbly honoured and privileged today to be installed and presented with the staff of office as the 16th Onigbeti of Igbetiland.
“I sincerely appreciate and acknowledge the people’s governor, His Excellency, Engineer Seyi Abiodun Makinde and the Deputy Governor Barrister Bayo Lawal for yielding to calls of our people for the approval of the new king and presentation of staff of office today.
“I call on the people of my great town of marble city; a new dawn has come, lost love is back, prosperity is returned and peaceful breeze has started blowing.
“I shall work with traditional chiefs-in-council, honorary chiefs, Igbeti Toro in and outside Nigeria, prominent sons and daughters of our great town.
“Together we will ensure our youths are gainfully employed and empowered through skill acquisition, grant and soft loans, and provision of scholarships 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,” Oba Abioye said.
Earlier in his welcome address, the State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, implored the Oba, as the traditional head, to ensure cooperation and harmonious relationship with the government to fasttrack government developmental projects to the town.
“It is believed that nobody knows the people and the terrain better than you as leader and custodian of our heritage thus I wish to urge you to assist our security agencies with useful information; you see something, say something,” he said.
Speaking to journalists, the Director General, Oyo State Solid Minerals Development Agency, Mr Abiodun Oni, an indigene of Igbeti, urged the citizens to cooperate with Oba Abioye for peace to reign in the land.
Also, the member representing Irepo/Oorelope/Olorunsogo Federal Constituency, Hon. Olaide Mohammed, while praying for a successful reign, urged Oba Abioye to be fair to everybody, regardless of their religion or political affiliation.
The event was attended by the State Head of Service, Olubunmi Oni, traditional rulers in the area and members of the newly constituted Elders Council led by Elder Wole Oyelese, among others. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
