By Bolaji David
The Forum of Obas and Chiefs in Ogbomoso Zone has thrown its weight behind the recent reconstitution of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs by Governor Seyi Makinde, describing the move as timely and well-considered.
The traditional rulers particularly commended the appointment of the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, as co-chairman of the council.
They also applauded the inclusion of the Aale of Okelerin, Oba Samuel Babatunde Amao, as a permanent member, noting that the appointments reflect Ogbomoso’s historical relevance and enduring contributions to Oyo State.
The forum comprises royal fathers from the five local government areas in the zone — Ogbomoso North, Ogbomoso South, Oriire, Surulere and Ogo-Oluwa.
Speaking with journalists after a meeting held at the Soun’s Palace on Thursday, the forum’s spokesman and Alapa of Okin-Apa, Oba John Akinola Akintola, expressed gratitude to the state government.
He, however, appealed for further consideration of other distinguished monarchs from the zone in subsequent appointments.
The meeting, attended by about 25 traditional rulers, focused largely on unity and collective advancement. The monarchs unanimously reaffirmed their loyalty to Oba Olaoye, declaring him the undisputed leader of traditional rulers in Ogbomosoland.
“His Imperial Majesty, Oba Olaoye, remains our leader,” the forum stated, stressing that the gathering was convened to strengthen solidarity and demonstrate unwavering support for his leadership.
Security of lives and property also featured prominently in their deliberations.
Oba Akintola assured residents that proactive measures are being taken to address security concerns across the zone.
While declining to disclose specific strategies, he emphasized that traditional rulers would continue to collaborate with both conventional and local security structures to enhance safety.
On development, the royal fathers deliberated on strategies to make Ogbomoso more investment-friendly.
A key resolution reached was the need to reform land administration, particularly by curbing the practice of multiple land sales, which often fuels disputes and discourages prospective investors.
The forum further commended Oba Olaoye’s long-term development blueprint for Ogbomosoland, especially his proposed 25-year development plan.
According to Oba Akintola, early signs of transformation are already evident.
“We are beginning to witness tangible impact from his initiatives.
Development will not be limited to a single area; projects will be spread across the local governments to ensure balanced growth,” he said.
The monarchs also urged one another to continue providing exemplary leadership as the state gradually prepares for the 2027 general elections.
Traditional rulers present at the meeting included the Oranmiyan of Okoland, Oba Solomon Akinola; the Alajaawa of Ajaawa, Oba Thompson Adeyeye Oyetunji; the Oloolo of Oolo, Oba Michael Ajayi Oyebunmi; the Onisapa of Isapa Kingdom, Oba Ezekiel Bolarinwa Olajide.
Others were the Olopete of Opete, Oba Samuel Bamigboye; the Onijabata of Jabata, Oba Mustapha Alabi Fadipe; the Areago of Ogbomosoland, High Chief Sobolaje Otolorin; the Ikolaba of Ogbomosoland, High Chief David Ojo; and the Iyalode of Ogbomosoland, High Chief Rebecca Ogundare, among others.
Source: Ogbomoso Insight
