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From Taiwo Oluwadare, Ibadan
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has officially presented the staff and certificate of office to the newly appointed Eleruwa of Eruwa, Oba Samuel Adegbola. The ceremony took place at the Executive Chamber of the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan, on Thursday.
Governor Makinde expressed satisfaction that the longstanding issues preventing Eruwa from having a traditional ruler had been resolved. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fostering development across the state while emphasising the vital role of traditional institutions. The governor clarified that Oba Adegbola was selected by the kingmakers of Eruwa, with the state government merely endorsing the nomination.
“This is a significant event, as Eruwa has been without a traditional ruler for over five years due to a lingering dispute since 2019,” Makinde stated. “When we assumed office, we met the dispute and worked to mediate. The Supreme Court ruling in November required compliance, and we respected the judgment.”
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Makinde recounted his efforts to understand the core issues, consulting with former Chief Judge Mukthar Abimbola, who explained the concerns over lineage. Recognising the necessity of leadership for Eruwa’s progress, the governor emphasised that due process was followed in Oba Adegbola’s nomination. “As I have consistently maintained, our administration will not interfere in traditional matters once due process is observed. Any legal challenges would amount to wasted efforts. People attempted to lobby me, but I stood by what was right,” he added.
The governor highlighted the contributions of traditional institutions to governance, particularly in security and cultural preservation. In his acceptance speech, Oba Adegbola expressed gratitude to the state government and pledged to unite all aggrieved parties for the betterment of Eruwa. He also committed to working closely with the state government and other traditional rulers to enhance security and development in Oyo State.
Dignitaries at the event included former Deputy Governor and PDP Deputy National Chairman, Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja; former Deputy Governor, Alhaji Hazeem Gbolarumi; Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt Hon Adebo Ogundoyin; Justice Ladiran Akintola, representing the Chief Judge of Oyo State; and Secretary to the State Government, Prof Olanike Adeyemo. Others in attendance were Chief of Staff, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi; Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni, MNI; Co-Chairman of Oyo State Elders’ Council, Dr Saka Balogun; former Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Senator Monsurat Sunmonu; Asiwaju of Eruwaland, Asiwaju Olatunji Alao Fadairo; and the Oba’s wives, Olori Caroline and Olori Oyefunke.
Also present were Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon Demola Ojo; Commissioner for Justice and Attorney-General, Mr Abiodun Aikomo; Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Miss Wasilat Adegoke; Senior Executive Assistant to the Governor (Special Duties), Chief Mikhail Bayo Lawal; and other government officials.
