…..as Community honours Abena, Youth Minister, Ebenezer Adeniyan, Adegbonmire, Eyitayo Jegede, Akure Imam, others amidst Melodious Song from King Saheed Osupa
By: Our Reporter
It was a glamorous outing in Akure as the Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, extolled the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, Odundun II, for his ten years of purposeful leadership, describing his reign as a decade marked by peace, unity, and significant contributions to the development of Akure and Ondo State.
The Governor gave the commendation on Saturday, July 19, 2025, during the homage parade and award presentation held in Akure as part of activities marking the monarch’s 10th coronation anniversary.
In his address during the event, held at the Democracy Park in Akure, Governor Aiyedatiwa congratulated the Deji and the entire people of Akure Kingdom on what he described as a momentous occasion. He commended the monarch for his exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment to the development of the state over the past ten years.
The Governor praised Oba Aladelusi’s support for successive administrations in the State, describing his reign as peaceful and development-driven.
He said: “Your Imperial Majesty, your reign has been marked by significant achievements, particularly in promoting peace, unity, and cultural preservation. One of the most important things I must acknowledge is the consistent support you have given to the government in power over the last decade to ensure peace and calmness in Akure Kingdom.”
Governor Aiyedatiwa acknowledged the strategic role of traditional institutions in governance and appreciated the Deji’s collaboration with the state government, especially in his capacity as the immediate past Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Obas.
“Akure, being the state capital and seat of government, has greatly benefited from your visionary leadership. Your collaboration with the state government is legendary and your contributions to governance and community development are invaluable,” he said.
The Governor, who the Deji described as a Friend of Akure, further emphasized his administration’s commitment to the infrastructural and economic development of Akure as the state capital.
“We recognize the importance of Akure and have initiated various developmental projects to align the city with its counterparts across the Southwest. We will continue to prioritize its growth and appeal to all sons and daughters of Akure Kingdom to partner with us in this mission,” he added.
In his welcome remarks, Mr. Olufemi Meshe, the Chairman of the Central Planning Committee of the anniversary, said the day’s event was designed to trace the Deji’s remarkable journey over the past decade and to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Akure Kingdom.
Prominent Akure indigenes were honoured with community development awards at the event. They included the Chief Imam of Akure, Alhaji Abdulhakeem Yayi Akorede; Minister of Youth Development, Hon. Ayodele Olawande; the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti; and Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan
Others honoured included Mr. Eyitayo Jegede, Senator Tayo Alasoadura, Hon. Ifedayo Abegunde (Abena), Mr. Ifedayo Adedipe, SAN, Mrs. Tolulola Bayode, Mr. Olumide Origunloye, Barrister Olumuyiwa Adu, Mr. Femi Meshe, Prof. Daramola Adamolekun; and Prof. Adenike Osofisan.
Prominent personalities including the Youth Minister, the Ondo State Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami; the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi who attended earlier Church Thanksgiving; Former Governor Olusegun Mimiko who installed Oba Aladetoyinbo during administration attended the ceremony, while a popular Fuji Iconic musician, King Saheed Osupa entertained guests at the colourful occasion.
The Deji had earlier on Friday honoured Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde and his wife with a Chieftancy title.
