BREAKING: After 62 years, Ogbomoso to build new 'Town Hall,' Soun reveals

After 62 years, Ogbomoso to build new ‘Town Hall,’ Soun reveals

Khalid ABRAHAM

The Soun of Ogbomosoland His Imperial Majesty Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye Orumogege III has disclosed that a new hall to host community events is to be constructed.

He made this disclosure Tuesday at the event announcing the formation of a new umbrella organisation for Ogbomosoland styled ”Central Council of Ogbomosoland Sons and Daughters Universal,” alternatively Ogbomosoland Sons and Daughters Universal (OSDU).

“In a related development, a high-powered Committee is being tasked to plan and build a befitting Civic Centre for Ogbomoso to replace the outdated and inadequate Soun Ogunlola Hall,” the monarch said at the massively attended event.

He revealed the committee to be saddled with the task (which however has not been named) would make necessary contacts with relevant indigenes, local governments and the state government, saying it would have two years to deliver the project.

“When completed, the Civic Centre will host all future events and activities involving a large gathering of Ogbomoso sons and daughters. This Committee shall liaise with the five Local Governments of Ogbomoso Land and relevant Oyo State authorities to procure a suitable land space and has about two years to deliver the Civic Centre project.”

The Ogbomoso Town Hall renamed “Ogunlola Hall,” was built through communal effort and commissioned in 1963. It has hosted various activities, programmes and events including community meetings, political events and parties. It has been the central meeting point of indigenes of Ogbomoso since its inauguration 62 years ago.

After it collapsed from wind damage recently

It has witnessed various rehabilitations and upgrade over the years including in recent times the one undertaken by Mrs. Bimpe Martins when she was interim chairman of Ogbomoso North local government in early 2000s, a major upgrade by late Governor Abiola Ajimobi in the 2010s and the most recent one by the incumbent chairman of Ogbomoso North local government Hon George Ogunlade sequel to a ravaging storm that blew its roofs.