By Adeyinka Adeniran
Oyo state governor Seyi Makinde has officially presented staff of office to the new Aseyin, Oba Sefiu Olawale Oyebola.
The presentation comes despite a pending court case before an Oyo State High Court, challenging the selection process for the new traditional ruler.
The case with suit no: HOI/04/2023 is before the Oyo State High Court, sitting in Iseyin, over the contest for the stool of the ancient town.
Handing the staff of office to the new Aseyin, Makinde said developing Iseyin town more is his major concern, adding that the town had great potential for growth and development.
He highlighted the importance of education and youth empowerment in the development of the town assuring that his administration is already working on several initiatives to promote education and youth empowerment in Iseyin.
These, according to him include the construction of new schools, the provision of scholarships for students from Iseyin, and the establishment of a vocational training center.
He said “Iseyin is a town with great potentials, and I am committed to working with the people of Iseyin to harness this potential for the benefit of all.
“Education and youth empowerment are the foundation of a prosperous future for Iseyin.
“With the right investment in these areas, we can ensure that our young people have the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.”
Governor Makinde also said that he would work to attract investment to Iseyin, with a focus on the agricultural sector.
Speaking after his presentation of staff of office, the new Aseyin of Iseyin, Oba Sefiu Olawale Oyebola, expressed gratitude to Governor Makinde for his support and the presentation of the staff of office.
He said this was a significant moment for him and the people of Iseyin, adding that he is committed to working with the governor to promote the development of the town.
The monarch assures he would work hard to live up to the expectations of the people of Iseyin, adding that he would work to promote peace and unity in the town, and to foster economic development.
He also expressed his commitment to maintaining the traditions and culture of Iseyin.
Oba Oyebola said “I am deeply grateful to Governor Makinde for his support, and for the confidence he has shown in me by presenting me with the staff of office.
“As Aseyin of Iseyin, I will ensure that the people of Iseyin are proud of their heritage and that they continue to uphold the values and traditions that make our town unique.”
He thanked the people of Iseyin for their support and pledged to work for their benefit.
The Nation reports that the new Aseyin is succeeding Oba Abdul-Ganiyu Adekunle Salawudeen, 62, who joined his ancestor on July 24, 2022 after a protracted illness.
