Seeks advice, support from monarchs
Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke has revealed that report of the White Paper committee on chieftaincy affairs is ready and will be released in a few days.
Adeleke said this on Thursday when he attended the meeting of Osun Council of Obas led by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi in Osogbo.
“The report of the white paper panel is ready and will be made public soon. We don’t want to witch-hunt anyone but we’ll release the report to you all soon.” Adeleke said .
The Governor, who commended the traditional rulers for their roles in maintaining peace at the grassroots, said his administration will continue to carry them along in running the State.
He said, “I will first provide a background on why I have no option than to truly carry along our fathers in state governance. My father used to be the second in command to the Timi of Ede. I grew up to value and appreciate traditional institution as a major pillar of society.
“The second reason is the pivotal role our Kabiyesis played in the grassroot, socio-economic and security lives of our people. Our Obas live and dine with the people. They are the custodians of our culture with deep affinity with the people. In Africa, productive collaboration with traditional rulers is therefore the foundation of successful governance.
“Above explained why despite the harsh financial situation, our administration still ensures all round support for our royal fathers on various fronts. We need the support of our Obas to grow the state economy and sustain local security. I need your counseling on strategic state matters.
I see and consider our kings as the pivotal arm of the state.”
Speaking further, Adeleke said his administration will support the monarchs in hosting their towns days, while also revealing that the government is considering procurement of vehicles and also provide medical insurance for traditional rulers.
“Our fathers, please feel free to relate with me and my team. Our administration will continue to support our Kings for the successful hosting of their town days. We will work on a public- private partnership for town development through town day celebration.
“Medical support for our fathers will also be expanded. We will look into the possibility of health insurance enrollment as we did for pensioners in the state. We are addressing the issue of new cars for our Kabiyesis with all sense of seriousness. Gradually, we will be satisfying this genuine aspiration of our fathers in this respect.”
He also announced that the government will build a befitting Council of Obas Secretariat in the state. This will be fully equipped to fully recognise our fathers as a pillar of people’s government.
Addressing newsmen, Ooni of Ife and Chairman of Osun Council of Obas said the Governor attended the meeting in order to brief monarchs about the State of affairs.
“Being the closest institution to the people at the grassroots, the Governor came to brief us about what he has done and what his plans are for the new year. We believe in his aspiration and that of President Bola Tinubu for Osun people and Nigerians at large.” Ooni said.
