The Oyo State Office of Interfaith Matters has described the conferment of the honorary chieftaincy title of Aare Asoludero of Ibarapaland on Governor Seyi Makinde as a significant recognition of his contributions to peace, development and good governance in the state.
The Special Assistant on Interfaith Matters to the governor, Reverend Femi Ibikunle stated this in his congratulatory message on Saturday.
He said the title, conferred on the governor at the newly commissioned palace of the Eleruwa of Eruwaland on Saturday, carried a prophetic significance as the governor’s supporters increasingly envision a transition from GSM (Governor Seyi Makinde) to PSM (President Seyi Makinde).
The Interfaith Office said the chieftaincy honour was not only a celebration of Makinde’s achievements as governor but also an acknowledgement of his commitment to promoting peaceful coexistence among people of different faiths and backgrounds.
It noted that the title of Aare Asoludero, which connotes a defender or promoter of peace and security, was particularly fitting for a governor whose administration had consistently emphasised peace, unity and inclusive governance.
According to the office, the event provided another opportunity for traditional institutions and communities to acknowledge Makinde’s leadership and his relationship with the people across Oyo State.
The office congratulated the governor and his wife, Mrs Tamunominini Makinde, who was also honoured with the Yeye Asoludero of Ibarapaland title, describing the twin honours as a reflection of the confidence reposed in the couple.
It said the emergence of the titles had generated positive interpretations among supporters of the governor ahead of the 2027 political season.
“From GSM to PSM,” the office declared, suggesting that the Aare Asoludero title could be seen by Makinde’s political supporters as a symbolic pointer to their aspiration for him to occupy the nation’s highest elective office in 2027.
The office, however, stressed the importance of maintaining peace and mutual respect as political activities intensify, urging political actors and citizens to preserve the peaceful atmosphere for which Oyo State is known.
The chieftaincy ceremony was part of activities marking the first coronation anniversary of the Eleruwa of Eruwaland, Oba Samuel Adebayo Adegbola Ajobo Olurin I.
Rev Ibikunle prayed for continued wisdom, strength and good health for Governor Makinde and his wife, while expressing confidence that the governor’s commitment to peaceful coexistence would continue to contribute to the development of Oyo State.