By Segun Adio

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The Ibogun Balogun community in Ifo Local Government Area of Ogun State, on Saturday, December 9, 2017, came alive when the crème de la crème of Ogun State converged there.
The high and mighty in Nigeria’s socio-political and economic spheres were not left out. Their joy knew no bounds, apparently having waited for about two years to have a substantive monarch for the community after the former traditional ruler passed on.
President Olusegun Obasanjo, who sent his emissaries to the event, expressed delight at the choice of the new monarch.
After a laborious selection process and a long wait for a new Olu of Ibogun Balogun, Oba Fakayode Faluade Adeshina eventually ascended the throne of his forebears that Saturday.
Obasanjo, who commended the choice of the new monarch, in a speech, implored Oba Faluade to redouble his efforts to bring economic development to the community.
Speaking at the official coronation and presentation of staff of office to the Olu of Ibogun Balogunland, Goveror Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State, who was represented by his Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Jide Ojuko, declared that the state government was still battling to resolve the over 250 obaship requests from across the state.
The governor told the crowd at the coronation that, once an obaship case was resolved for good, the appointee should see the opportunity as a means to serve his people, the state and work towards the development of his domain.
Amosun said: “Let me reiterate that the appointment of an oba has fulfilled the Biblical injunction: ‘Many are called but few are chosen!’ This is because there are too many requests for upgrading from the position of baales to the status of an oba from almost all settlements in our dear state, which are yet to be granted.
“I am, therefore, imploring our new kabiyesi to see your appointment as a call to service. You should also ensure that you mobilise your subjects for the execution of worthwhile self-help projects, in a bid to complement government’s efforts towards socio-economic development of the state.”
The governor also enjoined Oba Adeshina to continue to champion efforts that would further enhance peaceful co-existence with other royal fathers within Ifo Local Government Area of the state.
“On the part of our administration, we owe the people of Ibogun Balogun and the entire people of Ogun State the benefits of dividends of democracy, which are already evident across the state. We remain unwaveringly committed to implementing religiously the ‘five-cardinal programme,’ as enshrined in our ‘mission to rebuild’ our state. To this end, I urge the oba to continue to mobilise your people to support our administration through prompt payment of taxes, rates and levies on which the government heavily relies to bring the dividends of democracy to our people,” the governor said.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Adeshina thanked Amosun, Obasanjo, and the Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba Adegboyega Olusanya Dosunmu, other monarchs in the state, as well as his olori.
The monarch also noted that the lack of industrialisation and unemployment among youths have been affecting the community.
“We need not rest on our oars. I do appreciate the people of Ibogun for choosing me as your new monarch. You are indeed my beloved family. As the saying goes, a tree cannot make a forest. I am, therefore, soliciting your maximum support, advice and cooperation to steer the wheel of prosperity of Ibogun Balogun.”
Chairman, Ibogun-Coker Local Council Development Area, Juwon Gbadebo, said that the selection of Oba Adeshina was well-deserved, considering his large heart.
“Unequivocally, the people of Ibogun Balogun have made the right choice. Faluade’s qualities include integrity, honesty, steadfastness, and trustworthiness, they have given him the edge over other contenders to the throne. It is my prayer that our dear king lives in sound health and divine wisdom to rule and reign on this exalted throne.”
“His passion for community development is second to none. Having done so much as a private citizen, there is no doubt that his appointment will bring to bear his wealth of experience by attracting investment and providing jobs for youths in the land,” Gbadebo said.