ELERUWA CORONATION: MAKINDE APOLOGISE ON IDO – ERUWA ROAD. CLEARS CONTROVERSY ON MONARCH’S INSTALLATION

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has again, assured the people of Eruwa and Ibarapaland of the completion of the abandoned Eleyele–Ido–Eruwa Road within the next 11 months.

He made the pledge on Saturday, 28th June, 2025 at the official coronation ceremony of the new Eleruwa of Eruwa, Oba Samuel Adedayo Adegbola, Ajobo Olurin I, held at the Eleruwa Stadium, Sango, Eruwa in Ibarapa East Local Government Area.

Governor Makinde, in his address, apologised to residents of Ibarapa for the slow pace of work on the road project and emphasised its critical role in enhancing agricultural activities and improving the economic fortunes of the region.

“Let me, on behalf of myself and the government of Oyo State, apologise to the people of Ibarapaland. We will redouble our efforts.

“And for the last time, if the Eleyele–Ido–Eruwa road project is not completed within the next 10 to 11 months, don’t allow me into Eruwa again. This is a promise I am making again,” he declared.

The governor equally addressed the monarch’s appeal for the swift activation of the Agric Transformation Hub in Eruwa, stating that documentation had been concluded and that work would commence soon.

Governor Makinde took time to reflect on the legal tussle and community controversy surrounding the traditional stool of Eruwa.

Governor Makinde expressed satisfaction that the dispute, which led to the dethronement of Oba Adegbola in 2019, had now been resolved.

“I am happy that the struggle is behind us now. The appointment of Oba Adegbola followed due process, tradition, legality, and justice were upheld,” the governor emphasised.

In his acceptance speech, Oba Samuel Adebayo Adegbola expressed gratitude to Governor Seyi Makinde for his commitment to justice and tradition.

The Oba pledged to lead with compassion and wisdom, promoting peace, reconciliation, and inclusive development across Eruwa.

“In my reign, I will harness the energy of our youths and the wisdom of our elders to build a more civil, tolerant, and compassionate community.

“The Eleruwa-in-Council will actively collaborate with the state government to uplift our people and ensure government initiatives reach every corner of Eruwa.

“Our locust years are over. I seek peace, not vendetta. Let us come together in truth and with civility to heal and progress. Eruwa shall shine again,” Oba Adegbola concluded.

The Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, who also doubles as indigene of Eruwa, described the installation as a historic moment.

The speaker reviewed the legal battles and setbacks following Oba Adegbola’s initial removal by the Supreme Court and expressed joy over the monarch’s return to the throne.

“To see Kabiyesi return to the stool after years of uncertainty is beyond words. The selection by another ruling house and kingmakers shows divine favor and broad acceptance. This is a new dawn for Eruwa,” the Speaker emphasised.

The commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Otunba Ademola Ojo, in his welcome address, appreciated the governor’s role in facilitating the installation and urge residents of Eruwa to rally round the new Oba.
He prayed that the reign of the new Eleruwa would be peaceful and impactful.

Dignitaries in attendance include the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, Okere of Saki, Olu of Igboora, Oba Jimoh Titiloye, Aseyin of Iseyin, Oba Sefiu Oyebola, traditional rulers across Nigeria, religious leaders, political figures, and top government officials.