The Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC), Arole Oodua Olofin Adimula and the Natural Head of the Oduduwa race worldwide, the Ooni of Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, on Wednesday hosted the Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, at the Ile-Oodua Palace in Ile-Ife, where he commended the governor’s leadership style and called for the speedy completion of ongoing developmental projects in the ancient city.
In a statement on Wednesday by the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Ooni’s Palace, Otunba Moses Olafare said Governor Adeleke, who paid a courtesy visit to the Ooni arrived at the palace alongside the Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adewale Egbedun, top government officials, commissioners, and party supporters.
The Governor was warmly received by the Ooni, alongside eminent traditional rulers, palace emissaries, and dignitaries.
Speaking during the visit, Governor Adeleke expressed delight at meeting the Ooni, describing him as a charismatic and highly respected traditional ruler.
He noted that his visit to Ile-Ife was part of his administration’s efforts to assess ongoing projects and ensure that the people continue to benefit from impactful governance.
“I am always happy to see Kabiyesi. You are very charismatic. I am in Ife for an empowerment programme and to inspect ongoing projects, including road constructions and the Lagere Flyover. Where necessary, we will ensure that contractors are directed to accelerate work for timely delivery,” the Governor said.
In his remarks, the Ooni who is also the Permanent Co-chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN) lauded Governor Adeleke for his humility, simplicity, and commitment to inclusive governance across Osun State.
He noted that the governor’s developmental strides are visible across various communities and towns.
“I greet our governor for his honesty and simplicity in shaping Osun State. You have demonstrated that leadership is about service to all, not a select few. Your projects are spread across the state, and our people can now see the impact,” Ooni said.
The Ooni, however, appealed to the governor to direct the contractors handling key projects in Ile-Ife especially the Lagere Flyover and major road constructions to speed up their work and ensure the projects are completed on schedule.
The Ooni particularly appreciated the ongoing infrastructural projects in Ile-Ife, especially the Lagere Flyover, which he described as a critical economic and transportation hub for the entire Ife Federal Constituency, comprising Ife Central, Ife East, Ife North, and Ife South local government areas.
“Lagere is a vital point for economic and social activities in this region. Its timely completion will greatly ease movement and boost commerce. We appeal that the pace of work be accelerated for the benefit of our people,” he added.
Looking ahead to the forthcoming Osun State governorship election, the Ooni offered prayers for peace, stability, and a smooth democratic process. He urged political actors to uphold the spirit of unity and prioritize the collective interest of the state.
“As the election approaches, I pray for peaceful conduct and continued progress in Osun State. May your administration sustain its good works for the overall development of our people,” the Ooni said, offering royal and ancestral blessings to the governor.