14 years after, Makinde crowns new Onitabo of Itabo

By Adejayan Gbenga

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has officially installed and crowned Oba Kehinde Ojedokun as the new Onitabo of Itaboland in Ibarapa East Local Government Area, bringing to an end a 14-year vacancy on the traditional stool.

The coronation and presentation of the certificate and staff of office took place on Friday at Onitabo Community Primary School, Itabo. The governor was represented at the ceremony by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Chief Ademola Ojo.

Speaking at the event, Ojo said the appointment of Oba Ojedokun followed due process in accordance with the Chiefs Law of Oyo State and the customary procedures guiding the selection of the Onitabo of Itabo. He noted that the stool had remained vacant since December 29, 2014, following the demise of the previous monarch.

According to the instrument of appointment, the kingmakers unanimously selected Oba Ojedokun after extensive consultations and forwarded his name to the state government for approval. Governor Makinde subsequently approved the appointment in line with Section 15 of the Chiefs Law, Cap. 28, Volume 1, Laws of Oyo State of Nigeria, 2000.

While presenting the instruments of office, the governor charged the new monarch to uphold the customs, traditions and cultural heritage of Itaboland. He also urged Oba Ojedokun to promote peace, foster unity among his subjects and work closely with the government and other stakeholders to accelerate grassroots development.

In his acceptance speech, the new monarch expressed gratitude to Governor Makinde for ending the prolonged vacancy on the throne. He pledged to provide purposeful leadership, unite the people and collaborate with development partners to drive socio-economic progress in Itabo and neighbouring communities.

The Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, commended the governor for strengthening the relationship between the state government and traditional institutions. He described the installation as a reflection of the administration’s commitment to preserving Yoruba culture and promoting effective traditional leadership.

Also speaking, the Chairman of Ibarapa East Local Government, Hon. Kazeem Arogundade, described the coronation as a historic milestone for the community. Residents and other stakeholders expressed optimism that the emergence of a substantive traditional ruler would strengthen peace, preserve the cultural heritage of Itaboland and stimulate sustainable development.