Seyi Makinde, governor of Oyo State, has revealed why he delayed his commiseration visit to Ogbomoso following the death of Oba Jimoh Oyewumi, who died 30 days ago.
The governor, who was received by families of the late monarch and Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, top leaders like Saka Balogun, Rasaq Gbadegesin and others, explained that some notable Ogbomoso leaders asked him to tarry a while and also give a befitting burial to the departed king.
“Part of the reason I came is that Baba deserves state burial and, for me as the Governor of Oyo State, that is exactly what I will give to Baba. So, I am here to discuss with the family personally and whatever we agree on is what I will carry out,” Makinde said.
OYOINSIGHT.COM had reported how Makinde had failed to pay visit to Ogbomoso, Igangan and Ibadan following the demise of their monarchs.
Speaking further, Makinde noted that the late first class monarch lived a good life and died at a ripe age.
He added Oba Oyewumi’s era would be remembered for the development of not only Ogbomosoland but entire Oyo State.
He said Oba Oyewumi never hid his feelings on any issue, noting that he would always speak truth to power and that Baba would be solely missed for those qualities.
Makinde chided his critics for adducing political reasons for delaying his condolence visit when the monarch died.
According to him, the late monarch and one of his wives supported him in the build up to the 2019 gubernatorial election.
“The purpose of our visit this morning is to officially condole with the family. I want to say that Baba, as old as he was, left a good legacy and did wonderfully well for the development of not only Ogbomoso land but Oyo State.
“I like Baba because he does not hide his feelings. He spoke truth to power. So, we will miss Baba for those qualities.
“Those who don’t want unity and progress for our state have been saying a lot of negative things since Baba joined his ancestors. Some said I did not come to condole with the family because I don’t like the people of Ogbomosoland. The truth is, all those people making those comments don’t know how close I am to the palace and Mama.
“When Baba Saka Balogun and I spoke, I gave him my word that I would attend the 8th-day Fidau prayer since I was not around on the day Baba died. But later, Baba Balogun called me back and said the 8th-day prayer event may not be appropriate for the nature of burial Baba deserves, and that we should take a bit more time and make preparation for the 40th day prayer and outing. One thing led to the other, I had to travel and I am here today.
“So, those critics are still free to keep running their mouths. Part of the reason I came is that Baba deserves State Burial and, for me as the Governor of Oyo State, that is exactly what I will give to Baba. So, I am here to discuss with the family personally and whatever we agree on is what I will carry out.
“I want to pray that Ogbomoso will continue to progress and the vision Baba had for Ogbomoso land will be accomplished by the grace of God,” he added.
Responding, one of the departed Soun’s sons who also doubled as director in the office of National Security Adviser, thanked Makinde for the visit, commending him for what he did for Ogbomoso, particularly on the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, LAUTECH.
“I want to pray that Ogbomoso will continue to progress and the vision Baba had for Ogbomoso land will be accomplished by the grace of God.
“It is better late than never,” he said, lauding Makinde for securing the sole ownership of LAUTECH which, he said, was very dear to the late monarch’s heart.
He advised Makinde to act speedily on the installation of Oba Oyewumi’s successor, explaining that the vacuum must not be protracted.
He added that a worthy and credible successor should be nominated and approved since the Governor is the ultimate consenting authority.
On the entourage of the Governor were the Chief of Staff, Hon Segun Ogunwuyi and other government functionaries from Ogbomoso land.