The newly installed Soun of Ogbomoso Land, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, has said that he is willing to collaborate with other traditional rulers in Oyo State, particularly the Olubadan of Ibadanland and the Alaafin of Oyo, News About Nigeria reports.
Oba Olaoye made this pledge during his visit to the Olubadan, Oba Lekan Balogun, at his residence in Ibadan on Friday.
The Soun, who was recently presented with the Instrument of Office and Staff of Office by Governor Seyi Makinde, emphasised the importance of Ibadan in the affairs of Yorubaland and Nigeria as a whole.
He acknowledged Ibadan’s strategic position and described the city as his home, having been born at the Catholic Hospital in Oluyoro, Oke-Ofa, Ibadan, and lived there for 27 years.
During the visit, Oba Olaoye commended Olubadan Balogun for the peace experienced in Ibadan under his reign.
He assured the Olubadan of his dedication to collaborating with him and other traditional rulers in the state, including the Alaafin of Oyo, to contribute to the progress and development of Oyo State.
“The important and strategic position Ibadan occupies in the affairs of Yorubaland made it compelling for him to visit his brother Oba, the Olubadan of Ibadanland.
“I want to commend you for the peace being enjoyed in Ibadan under your reign, and promise to collaborate with you and other brother Obas in the state, especially the three Imperial Majesties, Olubadan, myself and the Alaafin of Oyo to advance the cause of the state in all ramifications,” Gandhi said.
In response, Olubadan Balogun expressed delight at the visit, adding that Ibadan belongs to all.
He said that there has been a longstanding relationship between Ogbomoso and Ibadan, adding that the bond between the two cities would continue to strengthen.
Accompanying Oba Olaoye to the Olubadan Palace were some principal Chieftaincy title holders from Ogbomosoland, including the Aare Ago, Iyalode, and Abese.
