By Precious Owolabi, Ado-Ekiti

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Traditional Chiefs in Ekiti State under the aegis of the Association of Traditional Chieftaincy Title Holders have unanimously endorsed the State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji for a second term in office.

Members of the Association from the 16 Local Government areas of the state led by their Chairman, the Asolo of Ikole Ekiti,High Chief Oluwole Ogunsakin gave the endorsement during the foundation laying and launching of five Hundred Million Naira of the Secretariat of the association named “Ule Ijoye” after considering the track records of achievements of his administration which they said had positively impacted the lives of citizens in every community in the State .

According to the High Chief Ogunsakin,” In view of this outstanding performances of the Oyebanji administration in various sectors that all traditional chiefs in all towns and villages in Ekiti are endorsing Governor Oyebanji”.

He explained that members of his association are the original Chiefs that work with the Kabiyesis in all the communities for the progress, unity and maintenance of culture and traditions.”

“The association has been in existence for over 30 years. Our association comprises male and female chiefs. We are not a pressure institution but we work together with the Kabiyesis for the advancement of our communities and the state.”

Members of the association however solicited the assistance of the State Government and public spirited individuals for the successful completion of the Association’s building.

Performing the foundation laying ceremony of the “Ule Ijoye”, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi represented by Agbole of Agbaje Ife, Oba Adekunle Adebowale commended the efforts of traditional Chiefs in Ekiti, describing the project as the first of its kind in the south West states.

Responding the Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji who was represented by member of the State House of Assembly representing Ekiti East II, Hon Lateef Akanle said that his administration would continue to support projects aimed at boosting unity, love and peaceful coexistence across towns and villages in the State.

Reiterating his administration’s backing for the traditional institutions to enable them effectively perform their customary roles as custodians of culture and traditions, the governor noted that the edifice, when completed, would boost the capacity of traditional Chiefs to contribute to development of the state by creating avenue for all to come together and contribute to development of the state as well give useful suggestions that would help government in achieving its policies.

“Our focus is inclusivity and shared experiences that will foster a sense of unity and collaboration”, he emphasized.