Makinde presents staff to Onifiditi, demands action against banditry

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on Wednesday, presented the staff of office to the Onifiditi of Fiditi, in the Afijio Local Government Area, Oba Adekola-Oyelere.

At a ceremony held at the Fiditi Grammar School, Fiditi, Makinde stressed that Oyelere’s emergence as the Onifiditi followed the normal process without any violation.

Makinde said following the required family endorsement and the presentation by the local government, the monarch was scrutinised by the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters in the state.

Makinde’s comment was against the backdrop of the April 24, 2024 ruling of an Oyo State High Court sitting in Ibadan, nullifying Oyelere’s selection and appointment as the Onifiditi.

The suit, marked IHOY/59/2013, was filed by Samuel Ogunkunle and Bayo Oyewale.

Oba Oyelere, however, appealed the ruling.

Speaking at the coronation ceremony on Wednesday, Makinde, represented by the Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, said he presented the instrument of office to Oba Oyelere in the exercise of the power conferred upon him by Section 20 (1)(2) of the Chiefs Law Cap 28 Vol.1 Laws of Oyo State of Nigeria, 2000 and all other powers conferred on him as the governor of the state.

He commended the transparent and traditional selection process, saying it upheld due process.

The governor, therefore, urged the monarch to collaborate with the government in addressing pressing issues such as community development, education, healthcare, and security.

“By working hand in hand, we can tackle these challenges and ensure the welfare and progress of the entire community.

“The traditional institutions and government authorities must join forces to promote peace, security, and overall development. I charge you, Kabiyesi, to take all necessary steps to prevent the scourges of kidnapping, banditry, and land grabbing in your domain.

“Our government has zero tolerance for these menaces, and we expect your full cooperation in eradicating them. I hereby present the instrument/staff of office, which symbolises your authority as the Onifiditi of Fiditi, to His Royal Majesty, Oba Sakiru Oyewole Oyelere,” he added.

In his acceptance speech, the monarch, while recognising the responsibility of his role, said his educational and professional experiences had equipped him  to serve his community with diligence and integrity.

“In my reign so far, our focus has been on educational advancement, because I believe that an educated society is an empowered society.

“I have worked to ensure the welfare of our elders, acknowledging their wisdom and contributions to our heritage. The achievements we have seen are not mine alone, but the result of collaborative efforts by many dedicated Fiditiansand other constituents of Oyo State.

“As we endeavour to attract businesses and grow the homeland, our goal is clear: to foster economic growth and create opportunities for all. These projects are steps towards a brighter future, one where our youths can thrive and our community can prosper.

“As your Oba, I pledge to lead with wisdom, compassion and a steadfast commitment to justice. This coronation is not merely a personal milestone but a celebration of our collective aspirations and potential. I ask for your continued support and prayers as I strive to fulfil my duties with honour and dedication,” he said.

In his welcome address, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Ademola Ojo, said, “By presenting these revered symbols of power, we reassert our dedication to preserving the enduring principles that have shaped Fiditi for generations.”

In their goodwill messages, the Ekerin of Fiditi, Chief Oladiran Adegbola, the chairman of the coronation committee, Mr Idowu Adesokan and the chairman of Afijio Local Government Area of Oyo State, Olufemi Aikomo, thanked Makinde for his commitment to grassroots development and ensuring that the vacant throne was filled according to stipulated guidelines.