Former Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Asimiyu Alarape, has expressed congratulations to Senator Teslim Folarin on his recent chieftaincy elevation as the Aare Alasa of Ibadanland by His Imperial Majesty, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the Olubadan of Ibadanland.
Alarape, who was a two term member of the Oyo state legislature and Minority Leader of the 9th Assembly, described Senator Folarin’s elevation as recognition of Folarin’s hard work and dedication to the development of Ibadan.
In a statement he personally signed and forwarded to westernmirror.com.ng on Friday, Hon. Alarape described the conferment as a well-deserved honor that recognizes Senator Folarin’s unrelenting commitment to the development of Ibadanland and Oyo State at large.
He noted that the title of Aare Alasa, one of the prominent traditional titles in Ibadan’s chieftaincy hierarchy, reflects the confidence and admiration the people of Ibadan hold for Senator Folarin.
“Senator Teslim Folarin has consistently demonstrated exemplary leadership and an unyielding dedication to the progress of our people.
“His new title as Aare Alasa is a fitting recognition of his contributions not only to Ibadanland but to Oyo state and Nigeria as a whole,” Alarape said.
Alarape, who also represented Atiba State Constituency twice, emphasized that Folarin’s elevation will further inspire the younger generation in politics and public service, urging him to continue being a rallying figure and a shining light to others.
Senator Folarin, a three-term federal lawmaker and former Senate Leader, was honored by the Olubadan during a grand traditional ceremony that brought together dignitaries, traditional rulers, political leaders, and citizens from across the state.
Hon. Alarape however, prayed for Senator Folarin’s continued success and for enduring peace and development in Ibadanland.
“I’m very happy with Senator Folarin on his elevation because the title of Aare Alasa is traditionally associated with influence, responsibility, and service to Ibadanland, and is considered one of the prestigious ranks in the Olubadan-in-Council,” Alarape concluded.