Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to completing the Eleyele–Ido–Eruwa road project within the next 11 months. He issued this assurance during the official installation of the new Eleruwa of Eruwa, Oba Samuel Adedayo Adegbola, held at Eleruwa Stadium, Sango, in Ibarapa East Local Government Area.
Governor Makinde acknowledged the delays that have plagued the project and tendered an apology to residents of Eruwa and Ibarapaland. He emphasized the road’s strategic significance for economic and agricultural development in the zone.
“On behalf of myself and the Oyo State Government, I apologise to the people of Ibarapaland for the slow pace of the road construction. However, I am making a firm promise today: if the Eleyele–Ido–Eruwa road is not completed within the next 10 to 11 months, just like the Oyo–Iseyin or Iseyin–Ogbomoso roads, I should not be allowed into Eruwa again,” the governor said.
He also announced that all documentation regarding the proposed agricultural transformation hub in Eruwa has been finalized and that work will commence soon. He noted that the hub will be a critical asset in revamping the local economy and enhancing food production in the state.
Reflecting on the long-standing chieftaincy dispute that led to Oba Adegbola’s dethronement in 2019, Governor Makinde expressed happiness that peace and stability had returned to the community with the monarch’s re-installation. He described the resolution of the crisis as a victory for justice and tradition.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Adegbola praised the governor for his fairness and bravery in navigating the legal and administrative complexities that eventually restored him to the throne. He pledged to lead with integrity, compassion, and wisdom while working with government and stakeholders to advance the town’s development.
“My reign will be focused on promoting peace, unity, and development. I will seek to harness the energy of our youths while drawing from the wisdom of our elders. We will strive to foster a community that is kinder, more tolerant, and compassionate,” the monarch said.
He also vowed to use his position to support state-led initiatives aimed at lifting the people from poverty through sustained infrastructure and economic growth. Oba Adegbola called for unity among residents, urging them to set aside differences for the sake of collective progress.
“To my people of Eruwa, I acknowledge the challenges we face. But we must come together to resolve our divisions honestly. I seek peace and cooperation, not vendetta. Let us make our town a beacon of peace, hope, and prosperity,” he declared.
Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin, who hails from Eruwa, described the re-installation of Oba Adegbola as highly significant. He recalled the legal battles that followed the monarch’s dethronement, expressing gratitude to the governor for restoring dignity to the traditional institution.
“It’s a moment words cannot fully describe. This is a testimony to God’s grace. Oba Adegbola’s return to the stool is the people’s will, and his selection by a new set of kingmakers reaffirms his legitimacy. We pray for a successful and impactful reign,” Ogundoyin said.
He called on all stakeholders to work with the monarch to ensure Eruwa progresses, acknowledging that although differences may exist, unity is key to community advancement.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Ademola Ojo, thanked Governor Makinde for his unwavering support in resolving the chieftaincy issue. He described the day as a celebration of culture and tradition, praying that Oba Adegbola’s reign would bring peace and prosperity.
The event drew several dignitaries, including the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade; the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Laoye Ghandi; a representative of the Olubadan of Ibadanland; the Aseyin of Iseyinland, Oba Shefiu Oyebola; as well as other traditional rulers, religious leaders, political figures, and government officials.