As he sets his sights on a second term, Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has called on traditional rulers across the state to continue supporting his administration’s efforts in delivering inclusive development and grassroots transformation.
The Governor made the appeal on Wednesday during the official swearing-in of the Ogoga of Ikere-Ekiti, HRM Oba Adu Adejimi Alagbado, as the 13th Chairman of the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers.
Speaking at the well-attended ceremony held at the Council Chambers in Ado-Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji described the appointment of Oba Alagbado as a continuation of his administration’s commitment to unity, integrity, and cultural preservation.
He expressed confidence that the revered monarch’s experience and dedication to peace and development would further strengthen the council and traditional institution across Ekiti State.
While unveiling the composition of the new council, which includes 86 royal fathers, 66 permanent and 20 rotational members, the Governor reiterated that the traditional council would continue to play vital roles in advising the government on chieftaincy matters, customary laws, and other grassroots affairs.
Governor Oyebanji acknowledged the invaluable role traditional rulers play as custodians of culture and agents of unity, noting that his government will remain unwavering in its support for their welfare and relevance in governance.
Highlighting the achievements of his administration in the past three years, Governor Oyebanji noted the installation of ten new monarchs and the increase in sitting and transport allowances for traditional rulers from just over ₦1 million to ₦6 million.
He also disclosed the approval of a special ₦100 million monthly package to cushion the effects of the prevailing economic hardship on the royal fathers.
The Governor formally informed the traditional rulers of his intention to seek re-election, emphasizing that a second term would allow him to consolidate the gains of his first tenure and advance ongoing development initiatives.
He sought their continued prayers, counsel, and support as he works to deepen transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Adejimi Alagbado expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him and pledged to serve the council with humility and fairness.
He emphasized inclusive leadership, mutual respect, and collaboration, urging fellow monarchs to maintain unity and peace for the good of the state.
He also threw the royal fathers’ weight behind Governor Oyebanji’s second term bid, stating that the Governor’s developmental strides and respect for traditional institutions have earned him the support of the traditional council.
Dignitaries present at the event included the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye; Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro; and Head of Service, Dr. (Mrs) Folakemi Olomojobi, among others.
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