Fayemi who spoke while presenting staff of office to the Olupole of Ipole Iloro in Ekiti, Oba Babatola Oladele, said he religiously adhere to the tradition and custom of the people.
Fayemi said his administration will always respect the will of the people and the laws guiding the selection of traditional rulers in the State.
Fayemi recalled that the previous administration attempted to fill the position left by the demise of the late Olupole, Oba Owoseni Bright, who passed away in 2004 but failed due to the politicization of the process against the will of the people. He stressed that the unnecessary delay could have been avoided if the last regime had been guided by sincerity of purpose in the selection process.
“Previous attempts by the last administration to fill the vacancy of Olupole after the passing away of the Oba was characterized by political subterfuge, intimidation and total disregard for the custom and tradition of Ipole Iloro Ekiti people. However, the people vehemently eisteddfod the threat and were resolute in their determination to follow due process in the selection of their new Oba”, Fayemi said.
While congratulating the new monarch on his ascension to the throne, Fayemi charged him not to shirk his responsibilities as the chief promoter of the interests of his people and also embrace everyone.
Fayemi urged him to seek the cooperation of his people for the rapid development of the community and shun political bickering, mudslinging and unwarranted lack of cooperation that can limit progress.
