the daily

The former president general of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigene (CCII), Chief Yemi Soladoye has revealed how the Oyo state Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde earned a forever place in his heart by three landmark deeds.

Soladoye made the revelation on Monday at the ibadan culture ambassadorial honors conferment of the Executive Chairman of Lagelu Local Government, Hon. Mudashiru Kamorudeen, by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigene.

Speaking at the event honoring the council chairman, Soladoye highlighted Makinde’s stellar contributions to the cultural, traditional and developmental landscape of the state, underscoring the governor’s indelible mark on Ibadan’s history.

Topping the list of the three landmark achievements by the Governor in Soladoye’s account was the construction of the Olubadan of Ibadan’s palace, a modern edifice that stands as a testament to the governor’s commitment to preserving and promoting Ibadan’s rich cultural heritage. “The building of the Olubadan Palace is a monumental achievement that reflects Governor Makinde’s deep respect for our traditions and his vision to ensure that the Ibadan legacy is preserved for generations to come…. The palace, as a befitting seat for the Olubadan of Ibadanland, has not only elevated the status of the traditional institution but also become a source of pride for indigenes”, Soladoye stated.

Another defining act of Makinde’s administration, according to Soladoye, is the extraordinary elevation of a total number of lower class traditional rulers to Obaship status. “By granting royal recognition to these traditional leaders, Governor Makinde has empowered communities, deepened grassroots governance, and reinforced the cultural fabric of the state….This is no small feat!
The historic move strengthens the traditional institution and expands the influence of the chieftaincy system”, Soladoye noted.

Third on Soladoye’s account of Governor Makinde’s greatest deeds that earned a forever place in his heart was what he described “the rare opportunity” of having a humble and knowledgeable young chap like Kamorudeen as chairman of Lagelu at a time like this. “Having someone like Mudashiru Kamorudeen as Chairman of Lagelu local government, particularly at a time like this, is a blessing! And we owe this to Governor Seyi Makinde’s foresight in supporting and giving capable young leaders the opportunity of service”, Soladoye said.

Further in his statement, Soladoye called on the people of Oyo state to continue supporting Governor Makinde’s vision for a culturally rich state. “These three deeds– the Olubadan Palace, the elevation of our traditional leaders, and the emergence of young leaders like Kamorudeen– are not just achievements; they are the foundation of a legacy that will endure”, he concluded.

The even was well attended by critical stakeholders, traditional leaders, and political figures across party lines. They included, Elder. Babatunde Tijani, Hon. Akintunde Olajide Emmanuel, Hon. Lafisoye Akinmoyede, Oloye Benedict Akiika, Hon. Tokunbo Adeaga, Alh. Omobayo Ibitoye, Chief. Yemi Soladoye, Elder Fabunmi, Hon. Olajide Olatoye, Hon. Biodun Badmus, the entirety of Lagelu traditional rulers, and members of the CCII