Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi yesterday presented staff of office to two traditional rulers – the Ologotun of Ogotun-Ekiti, Oba Adebayo Adesanmi and the Alaaye of Aaye-Ekiti, Oba Ojo Idowu.
Fayemi, who was represented by Deputy Governor Bisi Egbeyemi, appealed to the monarchs to rally their subjects for the development of their communities. He presented the symbols in Ado-Ekiti.
The Ologotun throne became vacant on January 29 following the demise of Oba Samuel Oyebade, while the Alaaye throne became vacant on August 30, 2021, following the death of Oba Theophilus Ogunbiyi.
Two separate ceremonies were held to give the royal fathers their staffs.
Governor Fayemi expressed satisfaction that the processes which produced them, saying it was devoid of manipulation and unethical practices.
Oba Adesanmi said he accepted the staff of office ‘with exceeding joy and gratitude’, and described his ascension as a new dawn in Ogotun-Ekiti.
The monarch pledged to always work with relevant stakeholders in ensuring the peace, stability, growth and development of Ogotun-Ekiti.
Oba Idowu hailed Fayemi for allowing a transparent selection process, describing him as a man of integrity who made a great impact on the lives of the people of Ekiti State.
Describing Aaye-Ekiti as ‘one of the most peaceful communities in Ekiti State’, Oba Idowu pledged the loyalty and support of his subjects to the Fayemi government.