Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, on Friday, inaugurated the newly-elected chairmen and vice chairmen of the 33 Local Government Areas of the state, urging them to uphold rule of law.
The governor maintained that his administration is very clear in its dream for a better Oyo State, noting that the council chairmen elected on April 27, 2024, should replicate his vision for a better Oyo State, as they are closer to the grassroots.
Governor Makinde, who was represented by his Deputy, Barr. Abdul-Raheem Bayo Lawal, equally noted that the Local Government Administration cannot be undermined because of its constitutional obligation as a catalyst for sustainable development at the grass root.
He stated this during the inauguration ceremony for the new council chairmen and vice chairmen, held at the House of Chiefs, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan.
He maintained that his administration has been implementing an all-inclusive agenda for development based on his vision to move the state to greater heights through good governance, adequate democratic practice and total engagement with stakeholders with a view to delivering the dividends of democracy to the teeming population in the Pacesetter’s State.
The governor, who stated that his administration has proven itself as a responsive and purpose-driven administration by conducting election into the various councils as and when due, congratulated the people of the state for electing credible individuals as their representatives in the just concluded Local Government election, which was adjudged to be credible and fair in all ramifications.
He said: “I want to extend my warm felicitations to all the newly-elected Chairmen and Vice-Chairmen whose election is a clear indication of their acceptability at the grassroots in view of their dedication, integrity and tenacity at ensuring development at the various Local Government Areas.
“As a government, we are very clear in our dream for better Oyo State. Similarly, you must all brace up to replicate the same at the grassroots level by embracing people-sensitive and developmental programmes aimed at bringing democratic dividends to our people. It is my hope that you will continue to consolidate on past achievements.
“It is evident that the task before this august gathering is beyond mere rhetoric, as your coming on board must bring the desired and envisioned development to the grassroots in our dear state.
“As you start this new chapter, you are enjoined to collaborate and work diligently towards building lasting legacies with a view to making life better for the good people of the state.
“The grassroots communities are the heartbeat of our state; let us prioritise their needs and aspirations in our governance strategies. Always keep in mind the trust reposed in all of you.
“May your tenure be marked by transformative initiatives, impactful projects and an unwavering dedication to the service of our state and its people.
“For the umpteenth time and for the purpose of emphasis, democratic tenets must be upheld at the grassroot level, especially in the administration of your various Local Governments. There must be no room for excuses. You must bear in mind at all times that upholding the Rule of Law is key to democracy and civil administration.
“On this note, I now pronounce the 33 Local Government Chairmen and Vice-Chairmen inaugurated to the glory of God and for the benefit of the good people of Oyo State.
“Congratulations once again and thank you for your attention.”
Earlier in his remarks, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Segun Olayiwola, who welcomed the council chairmen and others to the ceremony, said the just concluded Local Government election marked a significant point in the state’s democratic journey, thus affirming the governor’s commitment to fairness, transparency and above all, accountability.
According to him, it was also a testimonial for the administration’s commitment to good governance and adherence to the Rule of Law.
While extending his congratulations to all the newly-elected Chairmen and Vice-Chairmen, Olayiwola expressed optimism that they would meet the expectations of the people of Oyo State.
He said: “As you embark on this noble responsibility, I urge you to work hand in hand with your respective executives, utilising their expertise and fostering collaboration to ensure that the dividends of democracy reach every nook and cranny of your respective Local Governments.
“It is the dawn of a new chapter, you are urged to work assiduously with unwavering commitment to building a more virile Local Government System devoid of acrimony or rancour towards building a better future for all citizens of the Pacesetter’s State.
“At this juncture, I wish to appreciate His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, FNSE for his unwavering commitment and vision to make Oyo State stand head high amongst the comity of states.”
The event was attended by the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Debo Ogundoyin, represented by the Majority Leader of the House, Hon. Sanjo Adedoyin; Chief Judge of Oyo State, Justice Iyabo Yerima; Chief of Staff to the governor, Hon. Segun Ogunwuyi and the Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni.
Others were PDP Deputy National Chairman, Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja; former Deputy Governor, Engr. Hameed Gbadamosi; wife of the former Governor of Oyo State, Chief (Mrs) Mutiat Ladoja; former Speaker of the House of Assembly, Senator Monsurat Sumonu; Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta states, Alhaji Daud Makanjuola Akinola; Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Alhaji Abdulganiyu Agbotomokekere and the representative of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Oyo State chapter..
Also in attendance were the co-chairman of the Oyo State Elders’ Council and chairman of Oyo State Advisory Council, Dr Saka Balogun and Chief Bolaji Ayorinde, SAN, respectively; Senator Gbenga Babalola; Deputy Director General of the Governor ‘Seyi Makinde 2023 Governorship Campaign, Barr. Adeniyi Farinto; serving and former Commissioners in the state.
