…royal father reaffirms commitment to unity, culture, selfless service
By Sade Adewale
The Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has paid glowing tribute to the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, on the occasion of the monarch’s 60th birthday
He described him as a wise, selfless and exemplary traditional ruler whose leadership has contributed significantly to the peace and development of the state.
Speaking at a thanksgiving service held at the Methodist Cathedral of Faith, Oke-Ogun in Owo Local Government area of the state on Sunday to mark the monarch’s 60th birthday, the governor said the celebration was an opportunity to thank God for sustaining the Olowo through six decades of a purposeful life and six successful years on the throne of his forefathers.
The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Dr. Olayide Adelami, praised the monarch’s reign, describing it as one characterised by wisdom, peace and dedicated service to the people of Owo kingdom.
He also commended the Olowo, who serves as Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Traditional Rulers, for providing outstanding leadership among the state’s traditional rulers and strengthening the relationship between the traditional institution and government.
According to the governor, the monarch has consistently offered valuable advice and unwavering support to his administration, noting that his commitment to the peace, progress and development of the state has been invaluable.
Aiyedatiwa further acknowledged the Olowo’s role in mobilising traditional rulers in the local government in support of his administration during the 2024 governorship election, describing the monarch’s leadership and confidence in his government as instrumental to the electoral victory.
He said he remained deeply grateful for the support and partnership extended by the royal father.
The governor also highlighted the monarch’s distinguished career as a lawyer, administrator and retired Permanent Secretary, saying his wealth of experience has continued to enhance his leadership within the traditional institution.
He noted that the Olowo’s appointment as Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Babura reflects the confidence reposed in his leadership and his outstanding qualities at the national level.
Aiyedatiwa prayed that God would grant the monarch good health, greater wisdom, renewed strength and many more years of fruitful service to Owo Kingdom, Ondo State , and the nation at large.
He congratulated the Olowo on attaining the age of 60 and wished him continued success on the throne of his ancestors.
Also speaking, the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, has expressed gratitude to God for preserving his life as he marks his 60th birthday, describing his reign as a lifelong commitment to selfless service and humanity.
The monarch said he remains thankful for the opportunity to serve the people of Owo since ascending the throne nearly seven years ago, stressing that unity, compassion and service to the less privileged have guided his leadership.
Oba Ogunoye also emphasised the importance of preserving and promoting the kingdom’s rich cultural heritage, noting that culture and tradition are essential to the identity and progress of any society.
He commended the Methodist Church, the planning committee for the thanksgiving service and Bishop Ekebeke for their support and dedication, while seeking for God’s continued blessings upon them.
In his sermon, the Bishop of Owo Methodist Diocese, Bishop Williams Egbetakin described the celebrant as a man of exceptional character whose life reflects dignity, humility and unwavering faith in God.
According to him, true dignity comes from good character and is demonstrated through the way a person speaks, behaves and relates with others.
Egbetakin praised the celebrant for living a life worthy of admiration and for serving both the Church and the community with honour.
The cleric prayed for God’s continued protection, good health and wisdom, asking that the celebrant’s reign and family would continue to enjoy peace and prosperity.
He also urged everyone present to remain steadfast in their faith, stressing that faith and trust in God are inseparable and that God’s faithfulness endures through every generation.