By SCM Correspondent l Tuesday, August 11
OSOGBO — Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has expressed profound gratitude to top traditional rulers in Ifeland following a high-profile homage to the ancient city of Ile-Ife and the neighboring community of Modakeke.
During the visit, Governor Adeleke received royal blessings and explicit endorsements from both the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, and the Ogunsua of Modakeke, His Royal Majesty Oba Joseph Olubiyi Toriola.
Addressing stakeholders, royal fathers, and community members during the tour, Governor Adeleke described the warm reception at the ancestral home of the Yoruba race as deeply humbling. He noted that the prayers and goodwill from the traditional rulers serve as a powerful validation of his administration’s governance record across the state.
”I was deeply humbled by the warm reception received at the Cradle of all Yoruba, the prayers and words of support from the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and endorsement from the Ogunsua of Modakeke, His Royal Majesty, Oba Joseph Olubiyi Toriola,” Governor Adeleke stated. “I am grateful for the recognition of the work our administration is doing across Ile-Ife, Modakeke, and the entire Osun State.”
Showcasing Infrastructure Delivery
Highlighting his administration’s multi-billion naira infrastructure revolution, the Governor pointed to transformative projects aimed at elevating the socio-economic status of Ifeland and Osun State at large.
Among the flagship projects highlighted are the ongoing flagship Lagere Flyover in Ile-Ife—designed to permanently resolve traffic gridlock in the commercial hub—and the completed dualisation of the major access road leading directly to the Ooni’s Palace. Several other road network improvements and urban renewal projects have also been executed across both Ile-Ife and Modakeke.
Adeleke reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining the momentum of development, assuring residents that the royal commendations would only motivate his team to double their efforts.
”From the Lagere Flyover to the dualised road leading to the Ooni’s Palace and several other completed projects in Ile-Ife, we are delivering on our promise to build a modern and prosperous Osun,” he affirmed.
“Our commitment is to do even more. The commendations from our royal fathers will only push us to work harder and deliver more dividends of good governance.”
Charter of Peace Ahead of the Polls
With political activities gathering momentum across the state, Governor Adeleke issued a strong plea for peace, urging citizens and political supporters to eschew violence, act responsibly, and safeguard their democratic mandate within the bounds of the law.
Advising the electorate to channel their enthusiasm into voter participation, the Governor urged citizens to stay vigilant throughout the voting and collation process.
”Please do not fight anyone.
Let your votes speak. Be vigilant, protect your votes, and follow the process from your polling units to the collation centres,” Adeleke charged the crowd. “We have the people. We have the support of our royal fathers. And above all, we trust in God. Together, we will secure victory and continue building a Greater Osun.”
Backgrounding the Story: Historical & Political Context
1. The Symbolic Unity of Ife and Modakeke
The joint endorsement of Governor Adeleke by both the Ooni of Ife and the Ogunsua of Modakeke carries historic significance.
Historically, Ile-Ife and Modakeke experienced decades of inter-communal friction. In recent years, successive peace agreements and joint development initiatives have fostered lasting harmony.
By executing critical infrastructure projects concurrently in both communities—such as road dualisations and urban renewal—the Adeleke administration has earned praise for promoting equity, peaceful coexistence, and shared economic growth across Ifeland.
2. Osun State’s Infrastructure Plan
Upon assuming office, Governor Adeleke launched a comprehensive Multi-Billion Naira Infrastructure Plan targeted at addressing decades-long infrastructure deficits across Osun’s three senatorial districts.
Key pillars of this initiative include:
Constructing flyovers in strategic urban centers like Osogbo and Ile-Ife (Lagere Flyover).
Dualising critical arterial roads linking palace precincts and commercial zones.
Rehabilitating health centers and primary schools statewide.
Installing solar-powered streetlights to boost night-time economies and local security.
3. Political Implications and the ‘Imole’ Mandate
Popularly referred to as “Imole” (the Yoruba word for light), Governor Adeleke’s political movement relies heavily on direct public engagement and grassroots support. Securing unanimous backing from traditional institutions in Osun East Senatorial District reinforces his administration’s political standing ahead of upcoming electoral cycles.
By framing his campaign around completed projects, religious faith, and non-violent civic engagement, Adeleke aims to maintain political stability while advancing his vision for a modernized Osun State.
