The Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, on Saturday, encouraged traditional leaders in the state to continue working towards peace, safety, and unity in their respective areas for the overall growth and development of the state.
Abiodun talked during the event where the new Olofin of Ado-Odo, Oba Olusola Osolo, received his staff of office, held at Methodist School.
The governor, represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hazmat, stressed the importance of the royal fathers, who are closest to the grassroots, always working for peace in their communities as no meaningful development could take place in a chaotic environment.
He praised the resilience shown throughout the rigorous selection process and urged the community to support their new monarch for the advancement of Ado-Odo.
Abiodun stated, “I urge all the people of Ado-Odo community to come together and work with the new monarch so that Ado-Odo community can continue to progress and develop.
“I know that the new Olofin has the ability to lead Ado-Odo to greater heights. It is important that we see today’s ceremony as an opportunity to start the good work of moving Ado-Odo to a respected position
“Kabiyesi, by your appointment as the new Olofin of Ado-Odo, you have become a ranking member of Yewa Traditional Council, and a permanent member of the Ogun State Council of Obas.
“I am confident that you’ll focus on accelerating the peace and socio-economic development in Ado-Odo by mobilising your people in a way that aligns with the vision of our administration to build our future together agenda.
“Kabiyesi, you’ll need the cooperation and support of your people. It’s important that you act as a father to all regardless of their political, religious, and social differences. You must be ready to show love and fellowship to all those who competed with you for the position.
“I want to urge all sons and daughters of Ado-odo to work with the new Olofin because experience has shown that there can be no meaningful development in an environment of conflict.”
Oba Osolo, in his acceptance speech, emphasized the need to move beyond past divisions and work together for the prosperity of Ado-Odo.
He promised to honor the legacy of his predecessors and lead the kingdom into a new era of development and unity.
He said, “It’s time for us to set aside our differences and come together as one unified force committed to the prosperity of Ado-odo kingdom.
“The division that once separated us is now a thing of the past. From this day forward, we are united and indivisible.
“I call upon all members of our community to join hands with me in leading our great kingdom.
The House of Representatives member representing Ado-Odo Ota Federal Constituency, Tunji Akinosi, thanked Abiodun and various stakeholders for their roles in ensuring a peaceful transition of power, expressing optimism for a resurgence of Ado-Odo as a focal point of progress.
