The installation processes of the 21st Soun of Ogbomoso, yesterday, climaxed with the presentation of staff of office/instrument of office to Oba Ghandi Olaoye by Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State.
Makinde, in his remarks, urged the 62-year-old traditional ruler to take steps that would ensure unity in Ogbomoso land.
He also enjoined the new Soun to embark on activities that would fast-track development in the ancient town.
The governor, who noted that there was no any central traditional council in the state, said the new royal father should work toward ensuring there was unity among traditional rulers in the state.
He called on Oba Olaoye to ensure the State Council of Traditional Rulers is functional again.
Makinde said his administration would soon reconstruct the House of Chiefs within the secretariat complex to allow the traditional rulers to hold their meetings in a conducive atmosphere.
He called other contestants to the Soun throne to put their experiences behind them and support the new traditional ruler.
“I’m looking forward to seeing those who went to court to challenge the new Oba withdraw their cases as a show of love for Ogbomosoland,” he said.
In his address, Oba Olaoye appealed to all the stakeholders in the Ogbomoso land project to join hands with him to ensure the ancient town attained its great potential.
“It is a well known fact that the sons and daughters of Ogbomoso land are among the most industrious entrepreneurs in this country.
“No community can embark on any significant development that we want for Ogbomoso land without government’s inputs.
“We are thankful for the roles that the governments, at all levels, federal, state and local governments, are playing in the development of Ogbomoso land,” he said.
He thanked the Makinde-led administration for the attention given to Ogbomoso since its inception.
The historic ceremony, which kick-started Oba Olaoye’s reign, was held at Ogbomoso Stadium.
The Soun stool became vacant after the passing of Oba Jimoh Ajagungbade in December 2021 at the age of 95, after reigning for 48 years.