Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo state has avowed that those who condemn his recent review of the Olubadan chieftaincy declaration epitomized by the coronation of 21 new Obas in Ibadan land would turnaround and praise his action either sooner or later.
Ajimobi, speaking on Thursday, at the commissioning of the rehabilitated Mobil Junction-Are-Oluyole-Wema Bank, Apata road decried that the comments on the Olubadan review were largely laden with political colourations, rather than considerations for glamour and uplift of the Ibadan traditional system.
Affirming respect for the Olubadan of Ibadan land, Oba Saliu Adetunji, Ajimobi urged the Olubadan to be wary of those using him to fester political interests.
Ajimobi said he was not all out to hinder anyone from achieving his ambition, but pointed out that constituted authority must be respected by all and sundry.
“Those who abuse us for crowning Obas now will praise us in future. Some have politicized the matter. Chief Obafemi Awolowo was then abused for introducing free education but he was praised afterwards. I did not do the crowning of Obas for myself.”
“Why do I want to hinder others from becoming what they want to be? Whoever God has destined will become whatever he or she wants to be. Moreover, I am not in the race to become an Oba.”
“Many administrations since Governor McGregor have attempted changes to the Olubadan chieftaincy. It was known as Baale in the 1930s before it was known as Olubadan. I am not into any battle with Olubadan but he should dissociate himself from those with political interests.”
“The Olubadan is a good father. I can’t disrespect the Olubadan but I know there are those using the Olubadan’s name to promote their interests, especially those that we have defeated politically. Anyone who believes in God is not interested in hindering the progress of anyone. Moreover, this honour is befitting for our kings and this event today looks more glamorous. I am glad,” Ajimobi said.
Ajimobi said the reconstructed road network would undoubtedly alleviate the traumatic experiences of commuters of the route and further socioeconomic development of the state.
“One of my most urgent concerns immediately I was sworn in as governor of Oyo state was to find ways of decongesting the ever busy Apata road, a federal road, so as to alleviate the traumatic experiences of the commuters along that route.”
“Today I am fulfilled that we dreamt and God has helped us to accomplish the task with the reconstruction of this strategic road. I am elated we are able to experience the realization of our dream. We do not just dream but actualize our dream; we do not just plan but accomplish our plan.”
“We are building road network systems. The road networks are important for our socioeconomic development. It is important that we construct major roads in all the main entry points into our urban centres,” Ajimobi said.
In his remarks, Commissioner for Works and Transport, Mr Wasiu Dauda stated that the 5.5km road at the cost of N2.2 billion would reduce travel time and improve the traffic situation in the area.
The event was graced by most of the newly crowned Ibadan Obas; members of the state executive council; the Asiwaju of Ibadan land, Chief Bode Amao; chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Busari Adebisi and other party chieftains; Chairman, State Christian Pilgrim Welfare Board, Very Rev. Ademola Moradeyo; members of the state House of Assembly, Caretaker Chairmen; members of the Nigerian Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW).
Tribune
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