The Maiyegun of Aiyede Amuro, Otunba Duro Olusegun Aseremaseka, has called for unity and commitment to communal progress.
Speaking at the commissioning of the fully reconstructed palace of the Obaro of Iyamoye, His Royal Majesty, Oba Ibrahim Momoh Ademinuyi (Amuwajoye I), on Saturday, Otunba Aseremaseka expressed his deep respect for tradition and strong commitment to community development.
The newly renovated palace was officially commissioned by Otunba Aseremaseka’s mother, Chief (Mrs) Beatrice Aderewa Mobolorunduro, the Otun Yeye Atunluse of Iyamoye Kingdom.
During the ceremony, Otunba Aseremaseka appealed to the people of Iyamoye to remain united and committed to communal progress. He emphasized the need to support leaders who demonstrate genuine service and results.
Speaking further, he highlighted the developmental contributions of Hon. Leke Abejide Joseph, explaining that the lawmaker has consistently shown love to Iyamoye community even without representing its constituency.
He explained that Abejide has, over the years, eased the financial burden on parents by paying WAEC examination fees for students across Ijumu Local Government. He also noted that the House of Representatives member facilitated the construction and rehabilitation of roads that improved connectivity within the area.
In addition, he narrated how Abejide, through the Leke Abejide Foundation, empowered women economically by disbursing over ₦50 million to market women in Ijumu and another ₦50 million across Kabba/Bunu Local Government, interventions which have strengthened small businesses and supported families.
Otunba stressed that these projects are visible, verifiable, and impactful, urging the community to stand behind Abejide as a leader who continually demonstrates compassion and commitment. He urged the people never to allow political propaganda or divisive voices to break the bond of trust and development already achieved.
The event was graced by a number of prominent traditional rulers including the Olujumu of Ijumu Kingdom, HRM Oba Olusegun Ayeni; the Alalu of Alu Kingdom, HRM Oba Oladele; and the Olugbagun of Igbagun Kingdom, HRH Oba Adebowale Shola, among others. The Olujumu extolled Otunba’s exceptional service and prayed that God would protect and uplift him. He encouraged other indigenes to follow this path of building lasting legacies in their communities.
Former Kogi State Commissioner for Finance and Obadofin of Egbeda-Egga, High Chief Abiodun Ojo, expressed joy and pride, noting that Otunba’s accomplishment in such an economically difficult time shows rare courage and love for his roots. He prayed for long life and prosperity for him.
In his remarks, the Alalu of Alu Kingdom, HRM Oba Oladele, praised Otunba’s generosity and consistency, recalling personal acts of kindness he had received from the young philanthropist. He hinted that a befitting chieftaincy honour would soon be conferred on him in recognition of his service to humanity.
Also speaking, the Bashorun of Iyamoye, Prof. Abdulganiyu Femi Sumaila, who is also a cousin of Otunba, expressed deep pride in his achievements, noting that generosity runs in the family lineage, as reflected in the respected name “Aseremaseka” – one who does good to all without discrimination.
The commissioning reached a symbolic climax as Chief (Mrs) Beatrice Aderewa Mobolorunduro cut the ribbon and offered heartfelt prayers for her son, calling on divine blessings to multiply his works and expand his influence for good.
Community leaders and elders publicly appreciated Rt. Hon. Leke Abejide for his unwavering support to Iyamoye over the years, pledging renewed unity and loyalty going forward. They offered prayers affirming that no force would be allowed to create misunderstanding between Abejide and Otunba, whose relationship they described as that of father and son.
In a related development, the Iyamoye Development Union (IDU), through its National President, Mr. Adeyemi Abubakar Shittu issued an official commendation appreciating Otunba’s contributions to cultural preservation, community infrastructure, and humanitarian service, particularly his empowerment of widows and support for the less privileged.
