AFTER FIVE YEARS, ELEMPE RECEIVES STAFF OF OFFICE.

The Executive Governor of Oyo State, Eng. Oluseyi Makinde, on Monday 8th July 2024 , presented Staff of office and instrument of office to the Elempe of Tapa, Oba Titiloye Owolabi Sunday Oyekanmi. It will be recalled that the Monarch’s chieftaincy was approved by the Oyo State Government in 2019 before getting final approval to wear beaded crown on March 7, 2024.

The event which had in attendance of the Oyo State Governor (represented by the deputy governor, His Excellency, Bar. Bayo Lawal, Speaker of Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Ogundoyin, members of Oyo State executive Council, Council Chairmen and traditional rulers took place at the Tapa Community High School, along Igangan road.

Speaking through his Deputy, Bar. Bayo Lawal, Governor Makinde emphasized the importance of traditional institution in promoting unity, peace, and development in the community.

The governor hailed the selection process that led to Oba Titiloye’s ascension to the throne as a testament to the community’s commitment to tradition, transparency, and the rule of law.

He advised the monarch to collaborate with the government in addressing pressing issues, including security and economic development.

According to Makinde, “I charge you, Oba Oyekanmi, to embrace the responsibilities that come with this exalted position.

“I implore you to work closely with the government to address the pressing needs of this community, including education, healthcare, security, and economic development.”

“As you begin your reign, I remind you that leadership is a sacred trust that requires wisdom, compassion, and integrity. Your reign should be characterised by grace, humility, and a deep commitment to the well-being of all,” he implored.

The governor, lauded the community for its support throughout the selection process and underscored the importance of maintaining the traditional values and principles of the Elempe lineage.

“The selection process that led to Oba Oyekanmi’s ascension to the throne was a testament to our commitment to tradition, transparency, and the rule of law. This is a great day for Tapa and for all those who believe in the enduring power of our customs and traditions,” he added.

In his remarks, the Oyo State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Otunba Ademola Obafemi Ojo, said the event served as a pivotal moment in the chronicles of Tapa, signifying the passage of authority and leadership to a new era under the reign of our revered Oba. He urged the Ibarapa traditional rulers and Tapa Community to rally round the newly crown monarch for the progress of the town and Oyo State in general.

In a separate remarks, the Honourable member representing Ibarapa Central and North federal constituency, Hon. Dr. Anthony Adepoju and his counterpart in Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Peter Gbadegesin appreciates the Governor of Oyo State for the honour bestowed on Ibarapa region as another history is recorded through the approval and a successful coronation ceremony of the Elempe of Tapa.

In his acceptance speech, the Elempe of Tapa, Oba Titiloye Oyekanmi appreciated God and Governor Makinde for making the long awaited dream of Tapa town come true.

“This event of today is unprecedented in our community. What we are witnessing here today is a testimony of your commitment to the sanctity and preservation of our traditions and ethos, on the one hand, and your unflinching regard for those vested with upholding of our customs and culture.

“Tapa Land under my watch will witness tremendous development, peace and unparalleled growth in the name of God, the very King who governs the affairs of men with truth and without bias. This instrument of office will further accentuate the place of our great land in the comity of communities,” he promised.

Traditional rulers at the event include the Olu of Igboora, Oba Jimoh Titiloye, Onilala of Lanlate, Onidere of Idere, Asawo of Ayete, Asigangan of Igangan, Oluaso of Iberekodo, Babaaso of Igbole, Onisaganun of Saganun and other traditional rulers across the state.