By Stephen Gbadamosi, Ibadan
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty Oba (Dr.) Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin (Ige Olakulehin 1), has commended the Igbo ethnic group of South-East Nigeria for their contributions to Oyo State’s economy.
The revered royal father reiterated his commitment to peaceful co-existence among the various ethnic groups in Ibadanland, South-West Nigeria.
The traditional ruler bared his mind during a courtesy visit by members of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Oyo State chapter.
Speaking through Senior Chief Rafiu Emiola Onideure, the Agba Akin Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Olakulehin said Ibadan would continue to appreciate the economic contributions of the Igbo, not only in Ibadanland, but also in the entire Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole.
“I implore you to continue with your business, social and religious activities peacefully and lawfully at all times as you have done in the past for the progress of Ibadanland.
“The contributions of the Igbo to commerce, trade and business in Ibadanland are worthy of commendation and well appreciated by all and sundry, as it is a significant contributor to the Oyo State economy and, by extension, our nation,” he said.
The monarch further enjoined other non-indigenes in Ibadan to emulate the good gesture of members of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in extending the hand of friendship and fellowship to Ibadan indigenes, noting their consistent show of respect for Yoruba culture and tradition.
Earlier, in his address, the Coordinator of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Oyo State chapter, Hon. Tallest Innocent, who doubles as the Special Assistant, Community Relations to the Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde, expressed his gratitude to the Olubadan and the Oba-in-Council for the warm reception accorded them during the courtesy visit.
According to the Coordinator, apart from paying the courtesy visit, they were at the palace to introduce the newly-elected executives of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide in Oyo State to His Imperial Majesty.
He appreciated the monarch’s support before, during and after the peaceful process as well as the inclusive governance approach of the traditional stool.
Accompanying the Coordinator were the newly-elected executives and other members of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide in the state.
