Governor of Oyo State, ‘Seyi Makinde, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the timely completion of the Eleyele-Ido-Eruwa road project, assuring residents of Eruwa and the entire Ibarapaland that the road will be completed within the next 11 months. The governor made this promise on Saturday at the official installation ceremony of the new Eleruwa of Eruwa, Oba Samuel Adedayo Adegbola, held at the Eleruwa Stadium, Sango, Eruwa in Ibarapa East Local Government Area.
Governor Makinde, who acknowledged the slow progress of the ongoing road construction, tendered an apology to the people of the region. He emphasized the economic and agricultural importance of the road, noting that it is critical to enhancing trade, farming, and mobility in the zone. He assured the audience that his administration will intensify efforts to deliver the project within the promised timeframe.
“Let me, on behalf of myself and the Oyo State Government, apologise to the people of Ibarapaland for the delay. We will redouble our efforts. And for the last time, if the Eleyele–Ido–Eruwa road is not completed in the next 10 to 11 months, please don’t allow me to enter Eruwa again. That is a promise I am making today,” Governor Makinde declared.
Addressing another key demand from the newly installed monarch, the governor confirmed that the documentation process for the proposed agricultural transformation hub in Eruwa has been finalized. He assured residents that the state government would soon begin implementation activities for the hub, which is expected to drive economic growth in the area.
Makinde also took a moment to reflect on the monarch’s journey back to the throne, expressing his joy that the protracted legal and traditional disputes surrounding the Eleruwa stool have finally been resolved. He described the day as a significant moment of peace and restoration for the town.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Samuel Adedayo Adegbola thanked the governor for his principled stance and support throughout the legal process that led to his reinstallation. The monarch lauded Governor Makinde for his steadfastness and adherence to due process, and pledged to lead with compassion, wisdom, and a dedication to unity.
“As your monarch, I will listen to the wisdom of our elders while harnessing the energy of our youth. I will promote a more civil, tolerant, and compassionate community,” the Eleruwa stated. “Our Council will work closely with the government to ensure that our people’s needs are met, and that development is evenly spread.”
The Oba further stressed his desire to unite the people of Eruwa and heal past divisions, urging citizens to embrace peace, cooperation, and collective progress. “Let the word go out that I seek peace, not vendetta. We will confront our societal challenges together and ensure the return of peace and progress to our land. Our years of locust are over for good,” he declared.
Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, who hails from the town, expressed deep joy at the return of Oba Adegbola to the throne. He noted the emotional significance of the event, recalling that the monarch was earlier removed from office following a Supreme Court decision. He commended the governor for facilitating the peaceful resolution of the chieftaincy matter.
“To see Kabiyesi return to the throne after several years without a traditional ruler is something words cannot describe. This is clearly the will of God, and it shows that his kingship is divinely ordained. We call on all residents and stakeholders to unite and support his reign,” Ogundoyin said.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Ademola Ojo, also praised the governor for supporting the traditional institution and making the ceremony possible. He prayed for a peaceful and prosperous reign for the new Eleruwa.
The installation event was attended by several prominent dignitaries, including traditional rulers such as the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade; the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Laoye Ghandi; the Aseyin of Iseyin, Oba Shefiu Oyebola; and a representative of the Olubadan of Ibadanland. Religious leaders, top government officials, political office holders, and members of the public also graced the historic occasion.
