The Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde has revealed reasons he had not collected any chieftaincy titles or awards since becoming governor of the State.
Makinde stated that he made up his mind as a matter of principle not to receive awards or chieftaincy titles until the expiration of his tenure of office.
The Governor made this known while receiving the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, through a delegation he empowered to meet the Governor in his home in Ibadan, Oyo State.
While playing host to the delegation, Governor Makinde confirmed that he had been approached on various occasions for awards and chieftaincy recognition. But that he humbly declined them based on his conviction.
Makinde, however, stated his readiness to accept the offer made by the Obama out of respect.
He said, “With the offer of a chieftaincy title made to me by Oba Ogunlade, I would, for the sake of the respect I have for the monarch, accept the offer.
The Governor pointed out that his reason for not receiving chieftaincy titles was to allow people to properly assess and evaluate his performance in office. And to decide whether he deserved such honour or not.
Makinde, however, clarified his change of mind in accepting the Oba’s offer of a Chieftaincy title.
According to him, it was in recognition of his maternal ancestral home of Akure that he is accepting the offer.
He said, “There is always a saying that ‘a prophet is not honoured in his hometown,’. But I am more than happy that my honour as a prophet will begin from my maternal home of Akure.”
Speaking earlier, the leader of the delegation and the Olu of Okelisa Titun, Olu Adekunle Ajanaku commended the Governor for his developmental efforts.
He praised the Governor for his giant strides in transforming Oyo State and making great contributions to the development of Nigeria at large.
The Olu of Okelisa Titun also described the Oba’s gesture as a response to the noble character of the Governor and his immense support for Akure Kingdom.
Responding, Makinde promised to continue to support Akure land and the monarchy. He also assured the delegates of his unwavering commitment to the development of Akure and her people.
The Governor also spoke about his personal people-focused projects in Akure, which included the renovation of the St. David’s Cathedral.
Among those in the delegation included Chief Akin Adinlewa, Dr. Festus Adedayo, the President of Crest Media, Mr Olumide Origunloye, Engr. Omoregie and a host of others.
The chieftaincy title will be conferred on Governor Makinde during the Oba’s tenth coronation anniversary coming up in July, 2025.