By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh
Ile-Ife, Osun State
August 6, 2026
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, for what he described as their people-centred leadership, humility and simplicity, saying those qualities would continue to distinguish them in public service.
The revered 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 make meaningful impacts 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 it is rooted in compassion, simplicity and a genuine commitment to the welfare of the people.
The foremost 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 equally commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the bold economic reforms introduced by his administration, describing them as fundamental steps towards 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.
“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,” the Ooni said.
Speaking on behalf of the two governors, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo said they were at the palace to pay homage to the foremost traditional ruler and to commiserate with him over the passing of his elder brother.
Governor Ododo explained that they were also in Osun State to meet with non-indigenes and mobilise support for the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the forthcoming governorship election, saying the progressive ideals that have delivered development in many states should also take deeper root in the State of Osun.
He noted 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 as well as senior government officials from Kogi and Edo States, who accompanied the two governors to the Ooni’s Palace in Ile-Ife.
