The Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde, has called on the traditional institutions in the state to continue to support his government to promote peace, security and overall development of the state.

The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Bayo Lawal, said this on Wednesday in the Fiditi area of the state.

Makinde spoke during the official coronation and presentation of staff of office to the first Onifiditi of Fiditi, Oba Sakiru Oyewole Adekola-Oyelere, Ajani-Eedu II, at Fiditi Grammar School, Fiditi, Oyo State.

He implored Oba Adekola-Oyelere to work closely with the government to address pressing issues in his domain and ensure the wellbeing and progress of his community.

Noting that Fiditi is well-known for its endowment with a variety of fruits, he urged the Oba to translate these natural potentials into commercial and profitable ventures for the benefit of the community and the State.

He said: “On behalf of His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, it is with great pleasure that I stand before you all today on the official coronation and presentation of instrument of office and staff of office to His Royal Majesty, Oba Sakiru Oyewole Adekola-Oyelere, the Onifiditi of Fiditi.

“I am happy that the necessary arrangements to ensure the peaceful reign of our Kabiyesi have been done. 

“The government of Oyo State wants you to collaborate with it in addressing pressing issues such as community development, education, healthcare and security. 

“You are expected to work hand in hand with us to tackle these challenges.

“The traditional institutions and government authorities must join forces to promote security and overall development. 

We have to tell you, the people of Fiditi, that there can never be growth in a land where there is no security. 

“And the issue of security is every man’s business. 

“So, we want to urge you to say something when you see something. 

“Tell the security agencies when you suspect anything dangerous. 

“The development our Kabiyesi wants in this land can’t be achieved by word of mouth but by action. 

“We have to work together with the government and the palace to ensure there is security. 

“We know that this land is a land of commerce, as it is blessed with fruits. 

“Also, we appeal to the sons and daughters of Fiditi to cooperate with the palace. 

You have seen the king as someone who can represent you. 

“So, work together with him so that this land will witness more developments.”

Lawal added that Governor Makinde’s government has zero tolerance for criminality and lawlessness and expects royal fathers to work hand in hand with government authorities to ensure the prevalence of the rule of law and order in the state.

He said: “The present administration in Oyo State has zero tolerance for social menace and criminality.

“Kidnapping, banditry and lawlessness are not welcomed here and we will expect that you will fully cooperate in eradicating them.

“The Kabiyesi must take necessary steps to prevent these so that they will be a thing of the past.”

While calling on the people of Fiditi to support their first Oba, the governor equally advised the royal father to rule with integrity and genuine dedication to the wellbeing of all and also foster unity and progress in his domain. 

Earlier in his welcome address, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Ademola Ojo, congratulated the people of Fiditi and charged them to come together to work for the progress of the town.

Ojo added that the stool has bestowed on Oba Adekola-Oyelere the sacred duty of steering his community towards a prosperous future, even as he prayed for a peaceful reign for the Oba.

In his official speech after receiving the staff and instrument of office, the Onifiditi of Fiditi thanked the governor for his relentless support for the uplift and development of Fiditi.

He vowed that during his reign, he would grow Fiditi’s economy, attract businesses and create opportunities for all.

The event had in attendance the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, who was represented by the Chairman, House Committee on Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Akintunde Emmanuel; Deputy Chief of Staff, Hon. Fola Oyekunle; other government functionaries; as well as traditional rulers and religious leaders.