The Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has commended the Governors of Kogi and Edo States, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, FCA, and Senator Monday Okpebholo, describing their leadership as people-centred and praising their humility and simplicity, qualities he said would continue to distinguish them in public service.
The monarch spoke on Thursday at his palace in Ile-Ife while receiving the two governors during a courtesy visit.
According to the Ooni, Governors Ododo and Okpebholo have continued to record meaningful impact in their respective states because they have remained humble, accessible and closely connected to the people they serve.
He urged leaders across the country to embrace humility and service, stressing that leadership is most impactful when rooted in compassion, simplicity and a genuine commitment to the welfare of the people.
The traditional ruler also appealed to political leaders and supporters in Osun State to place the peace and stability of the state above partisan interests as the August 15, 2026 governorship election approaches. He said the peace of Osun State is far more important than any political ambition, urging all stakeholders to conduct themselves peacefully before, during and after the election.
The Ooni also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for economic reforms he described as fundamental steps toward repositioning Nigeria’s economy for sustainable growth.
“No President has impacted Nigeria’s macro-economy like President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The unification of the foreign exchange market, removal of fuel subsidy, improved foreign reserves and increased crude oil production are game changers,” the monarch said.
“I am also aware that he is working on the micro-economic aspect that will directly benefit the grassroots. We are praying for him to continue to succeed. Let me also commend the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Her Excellency Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, for her impactful programmes and projects across the country through the Renewed Hope Initiative,” he added.
Speaking on behalf of the two governors, Governor Ododo said they had come to the palace to pay homage to the traditional ruler and to commiserate with him over the passing of his elder brother.
He explained that the visit to Osun State also formed part of efforts to meet with non-indigenes and mobilise support for the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the forthcoming governorship election, noting that the progressive ideals that have delivered development in other states should also take deeper root in Osun.
Ododo added that the APC remains committed to delivering people-oriented governance and sustainable development across the country.
“Mr. President has done well for this country. From the economy to infrastructure and social welfare, he has transformed the fortunes of our nation. We can see the positive impact of his leadership in Kogi and Edo States, and we want the people of Osun State to also benefit from these progressive development strides,” Governor Ododo said.
The visit was attended by prominent leaders of the All Progressives Congress and senior government officials from Kogi and Edo States, who accompanied the two governors to the Ooni’s Palace in Ile-Ife.
