From Priscilla Ediare, Ado-Ekiti
Ekiti Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has assured traditional rulers in the state that his administration will continue to support the traditional institution in the state.
The Governor also said that his administration will continue to provide necessary support for the effective functioning of the state’s council of traditional rulers and promote policies that will respect Ekiti culture and values, while encouraging development.
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Governor Oyebanji made the remarks on Wednesday at the inauguration ceremony of the Ogoga of Ikere-Ekiti, HRM, Oba Samuel Adejimi Adu Alagbado, as the 13th Chairman, Ekiti Council of Traditional Rulers, held at the Council’s Chambers in Ado-Ekiti.
“Let me reassure you of our administration’s unwavering commitment to working closely with the traditional institution for the progress of our state.”
He solicited the continuous support of the monarchs and charged them to further bring their collective wisdom and experiences to bear in the discharge of their duties.
The Governor, who appreciated the roles of the monarchs in sustaining grassroots development in their respective domains, solicited their continuous support for his administration.
“Your roles in sustaining grassroots governance, mobilising community support and ensuring peace and order remain invaluable.”
He added, “The progress made so far has been possible because of the trust and partnership shared, which deserves sustained progress and responsible leadership.
“I assure you that with blessings and continued support of the people, we will continue to deliver good governance, inclusive development and responsive leadership that will leave no community behind. As your son, I remain committed to my promise to you during my last campaign that I will revere you, and I will listen to you. I am glad that we have kept these promises.”‘
He noted that his government has been able to attend to some of their welfare needs in terms of improvement in their sitting and transport allowances, as well as monthly stipends receivable. Adding that by God’s grace, other needs that are outstanding will be attended to as soon as possible.
He used the occasion to formally inform the monarchs of his intention to contest for a second term in office in the 2026 gubernatorial election in the state. He canvassed their support through their subjects to be able to do more for the people.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Chieftaincy and Home Affairs, Hon. Ojo Atibioke, described the traditional institution as a pillar of peace, order and continuity. He underscored the importance of the traditional institution to the development of the grassroots, which he said remains invaluable to the growth of the state.
The Commissioner assured that the new Chairman will build on the legacies of past Council leaders and serve with dignity and purpose.
In his acceptance speech, the new Chairman appealed for the cooperation of his colleagues and the various arms of government for him to take the mantle of leadership bestowed on him to the promised land. He pointed out that such support is fundamental for the governor’s continued success, progress, peace and development of the state.
”Every member is welcome with his ideas and suggestions, I am for the good of all.”
He posited that while it is true that the traditional institution is apolitical,” the inference is that we as an institution is part of the organs for or of governance.
“We cannot and must not be part of politics, but we have to support the government which creates this institution in governance.”
The new Council is made up of eighty-six royal fathers with sixty-six permanent members and twenty rotational members selected from communities across the state. As part of the mandate, the new council is expected to shape the cultural preservation and offer critical counsel on matters that directly affect the lives and well-being of Ekiti people.
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