The Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Edward Ogundoyin, has described Governor Seyi Makinde’s installation as the Aare Asoludero of Ibarapaland as more than a traditional honour.
He said the title represents a bold statement of confidence in continuity of his economic blueprints under Bimbo Adekanmbi as his successor, stability of governance and his transition from governor to President of Nigeria come 2027.
Ogundoyin made the remarks while delivering a vote of thanks at the grand finale of the week-long activities marking the first anniversary of the Eleruwa of Eruwa, Oba Samuel Adebayo Adegbola Ajobo Olurin I.
The ceremony, held at the newly renovated and expanded palace of the Eleruwa, witnessed the installation of Governor Makinde as Aare Asoludero of Ibarapaland and his wife, Mrs. Tamunominini Makinde, as Yeye Aare Asoludero.
The Speaker said the decision by the traditional institution to confer the titles on the governor and his wife was a recognition of their leadership and contributions to the development of Oyo State, particularly Ibarapaland.
According to him, the honour also carries a deeper political and developmental significance, especially as the state approaches another major electoral cycle.
Ogundoyin said the people of Ibarapaland had witnessed firsthand the impact of Makinde’s administration through road construction and other development interventions, adding that such projects had strengthened the people’s confidence in the government’s commitment to their communities.
He singled out the inner road projects in Ibarapa East, particularly Eruwa, as evidence that the administration’s development agenda was reaching communities beyond major urban centres.
The Speaker also highlighted Makinde’s assurance that similar projects would be extended to Lanlate, describing the commitment as a source of renewed confidence among residents.
He further praised the ongoing Ido-Eruwa road project, saying it would strengthen connectivity between Ibarapaland and the wider Oyo State economy.
“The people of Ibarapaland see these projects, they directly feel their impact, and they appreciate the fact that development is reaching their communities,” Ogundoyin said.
He added that the relationship between development and political support was evident, declaring that Ibarapaland would reciprocate the governor’s commitment as the 2027 elections approach.
“As we look ahead to 2027, I have no doubt that Ibarapaland will reciprocate this commitment. The people of Ibarapaland, having witnessed the development taking place under your leadership, will massively demonstrate their appreciation and support at the polls,” the Speaker said.
Westernmirror.com.ng reports that the statement effectively positioned the governor’s traditional recognition against the backdrop of the unfolding political calculations ahead of 2027, when Makinde’s political influence and preferred direction are expected to remain significant factors in Oyo State and beyond.
Ogundoyin, however, also placed emphasis on the traditional and cultural significance of the event, commending Oba Adegbola and the Ibarapa Traditional Council for promoting peace, unity and development.
He described the renovated and expanded Eleruwa palace as a fitting symbol of the enduring strength of the traditional institution and a worthy climax to the monarch’s first anniversary.
The Speaker assured that the legislature would continue to support constructive collaboration between the government and traditional institutions, particularly initiatives designed to promote grassroots development and improve residents’ quality of life.
He equally thanked royal fathers, government officials, political and community leaders, guests and residents who attended the celebration, while congratulating Governor Makinde and his wife on their new traditional titles.