Adeleke Hails Ijeshas on Hall of Fame, Advances Ijesa Development Agenda

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Adeleke Hails Ijeshas on Hall of Fame, Advances Ijesa Development Agenda

By Waliu Adetokun, Osogbo

Governor Ademola Adeleke has described the Ijesha people as an enterprising and accomplished group, commending the unveiling of the Ijesha Hall of Fame as a significant step in celebrating the contributions of sons and daughters of the area.

The governor, who attended the event alongside members of the State Executive Council, said the initiative by the Owa Obokun Adimula, Oba Adesuyi Haastrup, reflects visionary leadership and a commitment to the advancement of Ijeshaland.

He noted that the project “confirms the suitability of the royal father as a 21st-century king who is well equipped to take Ijeshaland and Osun State to greater heights economically, politically and socially.

”Adeleke also expressed his longstanding relationship with Ijeshaland and its traditional institution, recalling his ties with the late Owa Obokun, Oba Adekunle Aromolaran, as well as his early association with the current monarch.

Describing Oba Haastrup as “a torchbearer of modernity and innovation in traditional governance,” the governor said his administration would continue to partner with the palace to drive development in the area.“My love for fast tracked Ijesa development tallies with the emergence of a king with local, national and international contacts and connections.

We have a strong development partner in the palace of the Owa Obokun, and I am building on the opportunities provided by this forward-looking royal father,” he said.On infrastructure and education, the governor highlighted efforts to transform Ilesa into a university town, stating that the establishment of the University of Ilesa has become a reality.

“I transformed the University of Ilesa into reality.

We appointed Ijesa sons as Chairman of the Governing Council and Vice Chancellor. We have secured accreditation for 95 courses and commenced reconstruction of internal infrastructure.

We will soon commission the Palace to Brewery Junction dual carriageway,” he added.He, however, called on Ijesha indigenes to fulfil their pledges towards supporting the growth of the institution, particularly in expanding infrastructure and academic facilities.

Earlier in his remarks, the Owa Obokun, Oba Haastrup, warned political actors against violence ahead of forthcoming elections, stressing that the palace would no longer tolerate acts capable of threatening peace in Ijeshaland.

“We will apply the law and tradition to punish sponsors of political violence.

Enough is enough,” the monarch said.He lamented recent loss of lives in the area and urged political leaders to caution their supporters, warning that those found culpable, including their families, could face banishment and ostracism.

The Ijesha Hall of Fame, an initiative of the Owa’s palace, is designed to honour and preserve the legacy of distinguished Ijesha sons and daughters who have contributed to the development of the community.