By DAPO FALADE
Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, has debunked insinuations that a rift exists between him and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu Adetunji, Aje Ogungunniso I, saying
there can never be issues between the two of them.
This was as he assured that his administration would continue to accord traditional rulers and the traditional institution in the state their due respect.
He made this known, on Tuesday, when he paid a courtesy visit to the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Saliu Adetunji, Aje Ogungunniso I, in his palace, to congratulate him on his 92nd birthday.
The governor, as stated in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Taiwo Adisa, was away on a national assignment by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) during the birthday celebrations of the traditional ruler.
Ascribing the rumour to those he described as detractors, he said, if at all there is any issue between him and the traditional ruler, such would be amicably settled between a father and his son.
“Those who are fond of peddling negative news about the Oyo State government and what we are doing in the state are saying there is a rancour between Kabiyesi and I. Let me say this again that I was brought up responsibly and I will never disrespect elders.
“Whoever becomes governor should know that the position expires in four years and if he wishes to seek reelection, he must come back to tell the people. If the people want him, he will be voted for and vice versa.
“But what about Kabiyesi? Once he ascends the throne, he stays there until he joins his ancestors. So, there is nothing that could have caused a rift between us.
“I want to assure once again, that we will do all that is needed to be done as a government, not only for the Olubadan, but also for all our traditional rulers in Oyo State. We will always give what is due to them. If there are issues, Baba can call me and we will settle things amicably.
“Some even said I have not come to greet Baba since I became governor. I think the next time they say so, people should be able to tell them to face their business and leave Baba and me alone,” he said.
He assured that his administration would continue to give all traditional rulers in the state what is due to them, just as he gave his backing to the decision by the Olubadan to appoint a new Babaloja of Oyo State.
He said, as someone with good upbringing, he would never disrespect elders and urged residents of the state to uphold unity and oneness.
“I want to use this opportunity to appeal to our people to uphold unity. I remember I said during my electioneering campaign that my government would prioritise tackling hunger and poverty.
“Hunger and poverty don’t know Christians and Muslims. So, let us tell those who want to divide us with religion that they should steer clear and do the right thing.
“The reason I am here this afternoon is because I was not around when you celebrated your 92nd birthday last week. I was at Ondo State. So, today, I came with a full entourage of government functionaries to specially greet you and I pray that you will live long by the grace of God,” he said.
While confirming the appointment of the Babaloja of Oyo State, Governor Makinde said: “I want to say here that since Kabiyesi has taken such a decision, it is confirmed by the government as well. So, they should follow the needed due process. Kabiyesi cannot make a decision and we will overturn it.”
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