Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has sworn in the Ogoga of Ikere-Ekiti, Oba (Dr.) Samuel Adejimi Adu Alagbado, as the 13th Chairman of the State Council of Traditional Rulers, charging him to lead with integrity, mutual respect, and dedication to unity among monarchs in the state.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony held at the Traditional Council Chambers in Ado-Ekiti on Wednesday, Oyebanji described Oba Alagbado as a seasoned and respected monarch with a proven record of leadership and peaceful engagement in Ikere and beyond.
“Oba Alagbado is a man of peace and dignity. I am confident he will lead the council with wisdom, maturity, and a deep sense of responsibility,” the Governor said.
The Governor noted that the newly constituted council comprises 86 royal fathers, including 66 permanent members and 20 rotational members, drawn from various communities across the state.
He explained that the council will serve for a two-year term and is expected to offer advice on traditional, cultural, and governance-related matters, including chieftaincy affairs, customary laws, and issues referred by the government.
“Our royal fathers are key partners in governance. Their proximity to the grassroots makes them vital to maintaining peace and promoting government programmes across communities,” Oyebanji said.
Governor Commits to Supporting Monarchs
Oyebanji reiterated his administration’s continued support for the traditional institution, assuring the council of respect, welfare, and inclusion in governance.
He also praised the immediate past chairman, the Olojudo of Ido-Ekiti, Oba Ayorinde Ilori Faboro, for his stabilising leadership, urging other monarchs to rally around the new chairman.
The Governor used the occasion to announce his intention to seek re-election, promising to build on the achievements recorded so far and deepen grassroots development.
“I appeal for your prayers and support as I seek a fresh mandate. Our mission remains the same—development, peace, and shared prosperity,” Oyebanji said.
Commissioner Highlights Government’s Support for Royal Fathers
Earlier, the Commissioner for Chieftaincy and Home Affairs, Mr Olaiya Atibioke, praised the Governor’s commitment to the traditional institution, revealing that ten monarchs had been installed since the administration began in October 2022.
Atibioke disclosed that the state government had increased monthly allowances for royal fathers from over ₦1 million to ₦6 million, and introduced a ₦100 million monthly welfare package to cushion economic hardship.
Oba Alagbado Pledges Inclusive Leadership, Supports Oyebanji’s Re-election
In his acceptance speech, Oba Alagbado thanked the Governor for the confidence reposed in him, describing the position as a sacred trust. He pledged to lead with humility, fairness, and commitment to the progress of both the traditional council and the state.
“I will serve with honour and in the best interest of our people. Unity among royal fathers is key to sustaining peace and supporting government development efforts,” he said.
The monarch assured the Governor of the council’s full backing as he seeks a second term, adding that Oyebanji’s dedication to development in his first term had earned him the royal fathers’ support.
The ceremony was attended by Deputy Governor Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Speaker of the State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, Secretary to the State Government Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, Head of Service Dr (Mrs) Folakemi Olomojobi, members of the State Executive Council, and other stakeholders.
