— Marks 15th coronation anniversary

—Launches N500m fundraising for new palace

By Dayo Johnson Akure

A prominent traditional ruler in Ondo state, the Oliyere of Iyere Kingdom in Owo council area of the state, Oba Omotunde Adako, has described the economic reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as highly impactful and essential to Nigeria’s accelerated development.

Oba Adako who said this  in Iyere at his 15 coronation anniversary, noted that hat President Tinubu’s reforms reflect strong leadership and a clear vision to reposition the nation’s economy for sustainable growth.

According to the monarch, although the reforms are challenging, they are necessary to place Nigeria on the path of long-term prosperity.

He noted that the measures introduced by President Tinubu, particularly in tackling security challenges, have begun to stabilise key sectors of the economy and restore confidence among local and international investors.

Oba Adako added that the reforms would open up opportunities for entrepreneurship, youth empowerment, and infrastructural development across the country.

According to him “I don’t want to be sentimental about it; I love President Bola Tinubu. Whatever he is doing is good in my sight.

“He is reforming the economy, and gradually, we are conquering issues of insecurity,” he said.

Oba Adako also called for the introduction of security votes for traditional rulers, noting that grassroots involvement remains crucial in addressing insecurity nationwide.

He said that “If you want to tackle insecurity in Nigeria, it is better to narrow it down to the grassroots.

“The monarchs know their communities very well. There should be security votes for traditional rulers because it will help them address security challenges effectively.

“When you give them security votes, it will enable them to guide their communities, towns, and villages properly. We know where to go and who to engage to address these issues,” he added.

The monarch attributed his 15 years on the throne to the support of the people and God’s grace, describing his journey as one marked by uncommon favour.

He said that the Iyere kingdom is mobilising resources to attract development to Iyere, announcing the launch of a N500 million fundraising initiative for the construction of an ultra-modern palace.

According to him “I feel great and happy-15 years on the throne has been by God’s grace. Today, we are launching a N500 million ultra-modern palace. The funds will be used judiciously to build a new palace, which we expect to complete next year,” he said.

Earlier, the state Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa said the traditional institution remains a critical partner in achieving the ‘OUR EASE’ agenda of his administration.

Aiyedatiwa who was represented by the Commissioner for Commerce, Industry and Cooperative Services, Pastor Adebola Ademuwagun noted that his administration has refrained from interfering in the selection of traditional rulers since assuming office.

“The challenges of the past affected royal institutions in Ondo State, but since Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa came on board, there has been peace among traditional institutions.

“That is why recent installations have been free of court cases. Communities are given the freedom to choose their monarchs, and the state executive simply confirms the process,” he said.

Notable monarchs and others who graced the event include: the Olumoru of Imoru, Oba Rotimi Obamuwagun; Owa Ale of Ikare Akoko, Oba Adeleke-Adedoyin Adegbite; former Chief of Staff to the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, Chief Olugbenga Ale and Oba Odidiomo Afolabi, the Olu of Igbokoda land among others.