……Monarch seeks Revival of Mini-Port established by British Colony in 1946.
By: Our Reporter
The people of Ayesan community on Saturday 11th October, 2024 rolled out the drums with pomp and pageantry to celebrate the presentation of staff of office and Coronation of Oba Adebayo Bashiru Takuro, Ogundairo 1 as the Olusan of Ayesan in Odigbo Local Government of Ondo state.
During the ceremony, the Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa cautioned traditional rulers in the state against exercising expansionist power outside their traditional jurisdiction especially in the disputed areas.
The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Mr Olayide Adelami, said that all traditional rulers should refrain from appointing or installing minor chiefs that are not found in their domain,
Aiyedatiwa pointed out that traditional institution is a vehicle meant for promoting peace, harmony and unity among the people, noting that the government was aware that traditional rulers are custodians of culture and customs with their closeness to the people hence the need to prioritize peace above selfishness.
The governor said traditional rulers in the state should exercise restraint and caution in exercising their traditional authority and power, stating that their power and authority should be to strengthen the peace and cohesion of their respective domains.
Aiyedatiwa explained that the government was committing substantial resources to strengthen the Ondo State Security Network codenamed Amotekun in terms of equipment and human resources, adding that it had not relented in funding other security agencies through logistical supports in ensuring safety of lives and property across the state.
He asked traditional rulers to continue to play their roles as instruments of peace, saying that the government would continue to prioritize safety of lives and property.
In his remarks, Oba Adebayo Bashiru Takuro, Ogundairo , the Olusan of Ayesan expressed appreciation to the Ondo state government for granting the approval and recognition of the Olusan stool, saying that it took the community over six decades (over 60years) to achieve the development.
“Mr Governor, we also want to mention that many of our contemporaries are now enjoying first-class status in the obaship hierarchy. We would like to thank you for this golden opportunity.
“It is worth noting that under your esteemed leadership, our town has experienced a historic milestone- something that has never happened before,” the new Monarch said.
The traditional ruler narrated how the community played a pivotal role during the British colonial rule, adding that in 1846, the British government established a mini port in the community.
Oba Takuro asked the state government to restore the port, which according to him was a symbol of the community’s proud heritage.
He sought for the assistance of the state government in construction of the Oniparaga/Ayesan Road, saying that the construction would enhance connectivity between communities, stimulate economic growth and improve the overall quality of life of people.
The monarch also called the attention of the government to the channelization of the Ofara coastal line, where the mini port is located, stating that if done, it would boost local commerce and unlock the full potential of coastal resources.
According to him, the government still has much work to be done in the community on roads, schools, hospitals and other essential services.
He, therefore, appreciated all members of the State Executive Council for approving and ratifying his appointment as a Grade C ‘Oba’, promising that the community would make it a priority to support the administration.
Oba Takuro vowed that his reign would protect, preserve and promote the cultural identity of the community, saying that the community would partner with the government to step up efforts to improve infrastructural development, galvanize support for economic growth and social well-being of the people of Ayesan.
Also speaking, the state Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Amidu Takuro, commended the present administration for honouring the community with approval of obaship stool and the appointment into the Olusan stool.
The Commissioner, who is the younger brother to the monarch, said that the development was a testament to inclusive and forward-thinking leadership of Governor Aiyedatiwa.
Many dignitaries from within and outside Ondo State including traditional rulers led by their Chairman and Deji of Akureland, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade, attended the historic ceremony.
