By: our reporter
A former Secretary to the Ondo State Government, (SSG) and Executive Director in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Chief Ifedayo Abegunde has been installed as the Asiwaju of Akure Kingdom by the traditional ruler of the capital city, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi.
During the traditional rite for the installation held at the the Deji of Akure palace, Oba Aladetoyinbo conferred the title on Chief Abegunde popularly known as Abena, and installed his wife, Jumoke Abegunde as Yeye Asiwaju of Akure.
The monarch said Chief Abegunde was honoured with the prestigious title of Asiwaju of Akure as a result of his immense contributions to the development of the town, Ondo State and the country at large when he served as a member of the House of Representatives, the Secretary to the State Government and currently serving as the Executive Director in the NDDC.
Deji of Akure expressed confidence that Chief Abegunde would perform well like previous holders of Asiwaju of Akure title which included Late Adewumi Adegbonmire and late Prof Olu Agbi.
The first-class monarch said Abegunde has been performing the role of a leader from time immemorial.
The monarch advised the new leader of the town to use his position to bring development to the town and unite all the Indigenes irrespective of social status and political affiliations.
In his response, Chief Abegunde thanked the monarch for conferring on him the chieftaincy title.
He promised to bring development to the town and help the monarch unite the people.
The NDDC Executive Director promised that he would continue to do good for the people of Akure, the state capital, and for the Akure-speaking people, irrespective of social status and affiliations, saying he has become the father to all with his new chieftaincy title.
The former SSG said, “When it comes to the issue of Akureland, we do not play politics. As the Asiwaju, I will support the Kabiyesi and people of Akure. I will continue to look for what is good for Akure and ask Akure to support me for what is good for Akure.”
The Minister of Youth development, Hon. Ayo Olawande was among dignitaries who attended the colourful event.
