‘Best news of the year’ – Ogbomoso erupts in joy over Ghandi // See official approval letter
Yinka ADETUNJI
The inhabitants of the ancient city of Ogbomoso are in jubilant mood over the announcement of Prince Afolabi Ghandi Olaoye as new Soun.
Recall ogbomosoinsightonline.com broke the news Saturday afternoon reporting that sources confirmed that the Oyo state governor Engr Seyi Makinde had approved the nomination of Prince Afolabi Ghandi Olaoye.
This threw supporters of Prince Ghandi and several other people in Ogbomoso generally into joy with the social media buzzing with the news. The shout of “Congratulations” rang through many social media individuals’ handles, accounts, walls and pages.
But it was still in the speculation realm since ogbomosoinsightonline.com relied on “impeccable sources” for the information.
However, with the press release issued Saturday evening signed by the Oyo state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, affirming Ogbomoso Insight news of the approval of Prince Ghandi “the city exploded in overwhelming joy.”
An indigene Mr. Kehinde Adekunle said, “We are happy over this development, it is the best news of the year. We have waited patiently for this moment over a year ago thank God it has come. I believe Prince Ghandi Olaoye will usher Ogbomoso into a new era of development.”
Mr. Adekunle added, “With the official announcement by the state government the city has erupted in joy, the city is agog. It is my prayer Prince Ghandi will not fail people’s expectations.”
Advertisement
When Ogbomoso Insight visited some areas and public places people were seen in elated mood, slapping each other at the back, discussing and congratulating one another over the announcement declaring “the waiting period for the vacancy over the stool of the paramount monarch is now over.”
Many others enthusiastically praised Governor Seyi Makinde for his “pacesetting role in settling major disputes before the approval,” even as some people expressed disappointment over the delay and blamed the ruling house involved for making Ogbomoso to suffer the unwarranted delay.
They noted the family’s action “had made the city lose ample opportunities in bargaining during the electioneering period.”
Alhaji Gbadamosi Adeleke another contributor speaking on the turn of event expressed confidence in the quality and ability of the Soun-elect assuring his “immense connections will be put to the benefit of Ogbomoso towards regaining her lost glory.”
It would be recalled that the immediate past occupant of the highly revered stool, Oba (Dr) Oladunni Oyewumi Ajagungbade III JP CON CFR joined his ancestors on December 12, 2021, at the age of 95 after ruling for 48 years.
The kingmakers subsequently selected Ghandi but the state government refused to assent to the nomination citing the intense opposition from sections of the family culminating in litigation. The governor Engr Seyi Makinde asked that unless the matter was withdrawn from the court and the matter resolved amicably he would not grant approval.
But while court in one of the suits had slated October 3 as date to deliver judgement with many waiting anxiously for the time, the announcement Saturday is a sweet turn of event for admirers of the Soun-elect.
For the records
Press Release by Oyo state government affirming nomination of Prince Ghandi Olaoye as new Soun It’s titled, “Oyo Gov Approves Selection of New Soun”
The Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde has approved the appointment of Prince Afolabi Ghandi Olaoye as the new Soun-elect of Ogbomosoland.
Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola said in a statement on Saturday that the announcement followed the long-drawn processes specified under the law.
“His Excellency congratulates the new Soun-elect on his ascension to the throne of his forebears,” the statement said.
The Commissioner said the exalted position has placed the monarch-elect in the position to facilitate harmony, understanding and tolerance amongst his people.
The Commissioner also urged all sons and daughters of the ancient city of Ogbomoso to work with the monarch to consolidate the successes of his forefathers.
E-signed:
Prince Dotun Oyelade,
Commissioner for Information and Orientation,
Oyo State.
September 2, 2023.
