Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has acknowledged the roles of traditional institution as a veritable tool of governance and stability.
Fayemi made the remarks on Saturday at the presentation of instruments of appointment and staff of office to the new Onise of Odo Oro Ekiti in Ikole Local Government, Oba Babatunde Jemilehin, Aladesodedero 1.
Represented by the Deputy Governor, Otunba Bisi Egbeyemi, Fayemi noted that the traditional institution has always played reconciliatory and advisory roles which have added value to governance.
According to a statement signed by the Special Assistant (Media) to the Deputy Governor, Odunayo Ogunmola, the new monarch succeeds the late Oba Gbadebo Olowoselu following the transition of the latter on 20th of August, 2018.
Expressing satisfaction in the process that led to the emergence of the new monarch, the Governor said the process was devoid of any political interference and influence.
According to him, the selection was in accordance with extant and chieftaincy law of the state and followed due process in arriving at the choice of the new royal father.
Fayemi assured that his administration would continue to accord respect and needed support that would place traditional institutions to their rightful position in the State.
The Governor pointed out that the importance his administration attaches to the traditional institution would always inform the prompt approval for filling of vacant stools in the state.
He, however, charged Oba Jemilehin to work harmoniously with his people to accelerate the rate of development in Odo Oro community, stressing that the position calls for considerable diligence, sacrifice, initiatives and perseverance.
The Governor appealed to the people of the community to demonstrate the spirit of oneness and sincerity of purpose by supporting and cooperating with their monarch.
Fayemi urged the people of the community to contribute their quota to the socioeconomic development of the community.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Jemilehin expressed readiness to sustain the peaceful coexistence of his people and support the administration of Fayemi to facilitate the implementation of policies and programmes that would bring about the delivery of good governance to his people.
Oba Jemilehin, who was flanked by his wife, Olori Esther Oluwafunmike, called on investors to utilize the expanse of land in the community for the establishment of industries.
The monarch appealed to the state government to assist in fixing Omu-Odo Oro-Ipao road to attract investors to the community.
Also in his remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Bureau of Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr. Adeniyi Familoni revealed that the selection process of the new Onise was keenly monitored in accordance with the extant laws and traditional rites of the people of Odo Oro.
Familoni added that the nomination of the monarch was devoid of rancour and generally accepted by all the sons and daughters of the town.
