Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has expressed satisfaction with the selection process that led to the emergence Oba Akeem Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo, saying he had no regrets about ensuring transparency and due process. Punch reports.
Makinde, who spoke at the weekend when the newly installed monarch paid him a visit at his residence in Ibadan, said he did not influence the selection process in order to ensure fairness.
“I remained neutral throughout the selection process to guarantee fairness and public confidence,” the governor said.
Makinde also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to renovating and reconstructing the Alaafin’s palace to reflect the cultural and historical significance of the Alaafin’s institution.
Oba Owoade commended the governor for his visionary leadership and described him as “a man with an objective bent of mind, who is extremely curious and always in search of the truth.”
Accompanied by his wife, Ayaba Abiwunmi, the monarch praised Makinde’s commitment to principles, saying the governor is always willing to embrace superior arguments backed by logic and evidence.
“Governor Makinde is deeply passionate about the causes he supports, particularly the emancipation and development of his people,” he added.
The Alaafin also lauded the governor for his transparency, steadfastness, and dedication to the welfare of the people, emphasising the importance of open communication in building trust between leaders and the governed.
“When leaders genuinely care about their people, they foster trust, build stronger relationships, and ensure long-term success,” he said, praying for the governor’s continued good health and long life in service to the state.
He further urged the people of Oyo State to reciprocate the governor’s good governance with unwavering support and cooperation.
Meanwhile, the monarch appealed to Governor Makinde to install CCTV cameras along the Fiditi–Oyo road as part of efforts to address the growing insecurity in the area.
Oba Owoade noted that while cameras had already been installed between Ibadan and Fiditi, extending the coverage to Oyo town would further enhance security and surveillance in the region.
“I want to appeal to the state government for the installation of CCTV cameras between Oyo and Fiditi. These cameras have already been installed between Ibadan and Fiditi,” he said.
