The Executive Chairman of Oyo West Local Government, Ojongbodu, Oyo, Hon. Prince Salam Akeem Babatunde Olukitibi, has congratulated the 46th Alaafin-elect, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, on receiving the instrument and Staff of Office.
According to the council Mayor, this significant milestone marks the beginning of Oba Owoade’s Elewu Etu reign as the Alaafin of Oyo land.
He lauded the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr ‘Seyi Makinde for presenting the Staff and Instrument of office to the new monarch, who hailed from Agunloye’s ruling house, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the rich history of Òyó’s traditional leadership.
The two-time council Chairman hailed the impressive credentials of the monarch, which include his professional achievement in Canada as a Project Coordinator at Manitoba Hydro and a Planning Engineer at Oil Reach Company in Glasgow, UK.
Hon. Olukitibi, however, expressed confidence that the monarch’s global experience, rich educational background, and philanthropic gesture would contribute immensely to Oyo’s development as well as the preservation of Yoruba culture and traditions.
He further stated that the people of Oyo Kingdom are optimistic about the future under Oba Owoade’s leadership, as the presentation of the instrument and staff of office marks a new era for the kingdom.
He now called on all sons and daughters of Oyo land to rally behind the new monarch in support of his vision for the kingdom, as he embarked on 21-day traditional rites. Stressing that his foresight includes initiatives to empower widows and widowers, modernize the palace while preserving cultural heritage, promote Yoruba traditions, establish a museum for Yoruba artifacts, enhance commerce and economic development in Oyo, and create vocational training programs for youth employment.
Olukitibi concluded his message by praying for the successful reign of the 46th Alaafin-elect, wishing him divine wisdom and strength in championing Oyo’s historical heritage.
