Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo state, has hailed the tenure of the tenure of the traditional ruler of Ikare Akoko, in the Akoko North East Local Government Area of Ondo State, the Olukare of Ikare Akoko, Oba Akadiri Momoh, saying his rein has brought accelerated development and peace to the ancient city.
Aiyedatiwa who made this disclosure in Ikare Akoko during the 40th coronation anniversary of Oba Momoh, also commended the monarch for his patience, doggedness, and commitment, stating that it takes a special grace to pilot the affairs of a great community like Ikare for 40 years.
Represented by the State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Amidu Takuro, the governor described Ikare Akoko as one of the critical commercial hub that contributed to the development of the town and the state.
He hailed Olukare for his enduring service towards peaceful coexistence and contributions to the development of the town describing the monarch 40 years on the throne of his forebearer as rewarding moments in the quest for growth and development.
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He however, prayed for continued blessings over the community and its people, and prayed that Oba Momoh continue to inspire devotion to the service of the people.
Describing the reign of the monarch in the last four decades as a remarkable achievement in the history of Ikare, said four decades in the saddle is no mean achievement.
“As one of the longest-serving traditional rulers in the state, Oba Momoh has enriched the traditional institution with his hard-earned experience”
While speaking, at Lenon Jubilee High School, Oba Momoh expressed gratitude to the people of Ikare Akoko for their support and loyalty over the years.
The monarch said, “The event we are witnessing today was as a result of the resoluteness of our revered High Chiefs, who elected me out of many princes who are equally qualified to fill the throne.
“Many of the High Chiefs are no longer around to witness today’s event. May Allah grant them Aljana Fidaus.
“The decision of the kingmakers then placed an arduous task on my shoulder, and in my candid opinion, God has been so kind to Ikare Kingdom under my reign, which has placed Ikare Akoko top amongst the comity of nations through the transformation of Ikare from a township status to a city.
“To the good sons and daughters of Ikare Kingdom, it is a known fact that we don’t have any other place to call our own, which necessitates uncommon cooperation in taking Ikare town to the next level.
“I want you to shun any act that is capable of causing avoidable mayhem as development strives in the atmosphere of peace and tranquillity.
“To my people, I pledge to continue to serve with wisdom, compassion, and strength. To our ancestors, we honour your legacy; to our children, we entrust our future.
“May this coronation anniversary mark the beginning of a new era of peace, progress, growth, development, and harmony. May our Kingdom continue to flourish under the guidance of the Almighty Allah.”
While congratulating the monarch over the unprecedented development under the watch of the traditional ruler, the Senator representing the Ondo North Senatorial District, Jide Ipinsagba, said Ikare has witnessed immense development across boards and called for continued support for the monarch.
On his part, the Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Elder Alex Akande, stated that “attaining forty years on the throne calls for joy, happiness, and celebration.
May this milestone mark the beginning of a new chapter of peace, progress, and blessings for him and the entire Ikare community.
Meanwhile, the event also witnessed the launching of a book titled ‘The Crowned Legacy: Glorious Reign of HRM. Oba (Alh.) Akadiri Saliu Momoh.
The book was reviewed by Prof. Busuyi Mekusi of the Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA) while sons and daughters of the ancient town converged on the town to celebrate one of the foremost in the state.
