The governor made the announcement during a meeting with the Council of traditional rulers in Osogbo, the state capital. However, he emphasized that he unveiled an integrated support package for them as a pillar of the people’s government.
During the second strategic consultative meeting with the state royal fathers, Governor Adeleke listened attentively to the suggestions and submissions of the royal fathers under the leadership of His Royal Majesty, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, before sharing his plan for the state’s Council of Obas.
Governor Adeleke, who reminded the Council of the inherited challenges faced by his administration, said his team prioritized royal institutions first because he grew up within a palace environment and because service delivery is best facilitated by royal fathers.
“Our Obas live and dine with the people. They are the custodians of our culture, with a deep affinity with the people. In Africa, productive collaboration with traditional rulers is the foundation of successful governance,” the Governor posited.
Governor Adeleke disclosed that despite the harsh state of finance, his administration has crafted a support package for the traditional rulers already being implemented.
He spoke on the package as follows: ”Our administration will continue to support our Kings for the successful hosting of their town days. Through a town day celebration, we will work on a public-private partnership for town development.
“Medical support for our fathers will also be expanded. We will look into the possibility of health insurance enrollment, as we did for pensioners in the state.
“We have already increased the sitting allowances of our Kabiyesi. This has taken effect statewide.
“We are addressing the issue of new cars for our Kabiyesi seriously. Gradually, we will be satisfying this genuine aspiration of our fathers in this respect.
“It is, however, my singular honor to announce that within the first tenure of our administration, we will build a befitting Council of Obas Secretariat in the state. This will be fully equipped to recognize our fathers as a pillar of the people’s government.
“Going forward, I am using this opportunity to inform our royal fathers that Ipade Imole holds on a quarterly basis. I seek your regular attendance as a Council.”
Responding, the Chairman of the Osun State Council of Obas, His Royal Majesty, Oba Ogunwusi, commended the Governor for his good governance records and delivery of service to the people.
“We appreciate Mr. Governor for his partnership with the Council. We extend open hands, and we are glad that the Governor has wholeheartedly embraced our hands of fellowship. We pledge full support for the success of Mr. Governor,” the royal father noted.
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