Governor Seyi Makinde on Wednesday officially commissioned the newly constructed ultra-modern Olubadan palace at Oke Aremo in preparation for the coronation of the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadaland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.
Governor Makinde in his remark at the occasion, acknowledged the contributions of all those who made it possible including former Governor Abiola Ajimobi who started it, the former President of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Chief O. O.Bello, Chief Bayo Oyero, and all Ibadan Indigenes who contributed to make the project a reality.
“To maintain this new palace, we have established a process where all 11 local government councils in Ibadan will contribute to its upkeep on a monthly basis.”
“For the second phase of the palace, we will also include renovating the Bower’s Tower, to boost tourism in our dear State. We are looking forward to the coronation of our Olubadan this Friday.” He said
The President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Ajeniyi Ajewole, highlighted that the completion of the palace marks the end of mockery from outsiders who previously noted that Ibadan, despite its uniqueness, did not have its own palace.
Representing the Olubadan-designate, the Osi Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Lateef Adebimpe, conveyed appreciation to the Oyo State government for its vital role in completing the project.
The palace, a landmark project started in 2011 during the era of Oba Odugade Odulana when the Bayo Oyero led CCII conceived the idea and start with fund raising for the project
The need for a new palace is necessary because the palace at Mapo was considered in adequate and unbefitting of the ruler of a kingdom of no fewer than five million subjects, especially as it was located within the precinct of the popular and riotous Oba’s market (Oja’ba)
The newly built Olubadan Palace is a modern and befitting structure that will serve as the official residence and administrative center of the Olubadan of Ibadan, the paramount ruler of Ibadan land
