THE Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye has charged indigenes of the ancient town to eschew violence and live peacefully with strangers sojourning in the town to facilitate development in his domain.
The first class monarch spoke during the 2019 Owo colloquim marking the millennium celebration of Owo existence in life.
Oba Ogunoye,who recalled the bloody violence in Owo community over Obaship tussle in 2000 particularly, apologised to the family of the late Dr. Jide Fagboyegun over the destruction of his industrial outfits during the crisis.
The family had been a major employer of labour in the state.
The monarch noted that there was need to reconcile with the family for good development of the ancient town.
He said: “They were the greatest contributor to industrial development of Owo but unfortunately most of their businesses were destroyed during obaship crisis.
“And I was convinced that in order to move forward, we must apologise to the family on behalf of Owo kingdom because they lost a lot.
“I tender unreserved apology to the family over the development. Owo offended them, but please forgive us.
“If we have built on good foundation laid by the Dr Fagboyegun, Owo would have been great.
“It is also necessary to invite the family back to this kingdom for sustainable development
The royal father tasked all indigenes of the town to come together as one, saying development of the kingdom rested upon everyone.
Responding, Revd. Rotimi Fagboyegun, one of the children of Dr. Fagboyegun, said the monarch had shown good sign of leadership for the apology he made.
He noted that the monarch had started something great in the town, adding that Owo people should support him.
According to him, the late Fagboyegun died as a happy person and not bitter
He said” On behalf of the entire family members, we do not hold bitterness against anybody. Who are we not to forgive? Whatever can be done to bring peace, we will do,” he said.
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