Monarch Celebrates First Anniversary, Expresses Hope of Better Nigeria

The Olubadan of Ibadan land in South-West Nigeria, Oba Lekan Balogun, who clocked one year on the throne on Saturday, has expressed hope for a better Nigeria, asking that citizens bear with the government as everything is being done to ensure that the current hardship is addressed.

Oba Balogun spoke at his Alarere Residence in Ibadan, on the occasion of his first year on the throne as Olubadan, in a press statement made available to journalists by his Personal Assistant (Media), Oladele Ogunsola, acknowledging the current hardship in the land occasioned by the Naira redesign policy.

The Olubadan praised the resilience of Nigerians, which he described as the sustaining power of the country, saying: “I salute our people for their resilience and perseverance which are anchored on hope for a better and greater future. Nigerians don’t give up and that’s why we always get out better and stronger of any situation however tough or difficult it may be.

“We are going to realise that bright and beautiful hope just with a little bit of patience. The last month presidential election which was held peacefully across the country with a winner declared already was a function of our hope in the country and it is certain that the hope would not be a misplaced one. Let’s add prayer to our resilience and perseverance for divine direction for our leaders,” he admonished.

Looking back at his first year on the throne, Oba Balogun expressed thanks to God for His grace upon him, the members of his family and the entire Ibadanland, stressing that God had been very kind and wonderful to him in the last one year which had been very peaceful to a large extent.

He praised the members of the Olubadan Advisory Council for their support, cooperation and understanding, without which he said it would have been difficult to have an eventful  year, asking for more of such in the interest of the ancient city.

Oba Balogun stated: “I also appreciate the role of Mogajis, especially on the twin issues of security and land grabbing. I must acknowledge their efforts in those two areas. The reports I hear from time to time are heart-warming and I can’t thank them enough. As I often say, the moment we stepped out to hold traditional titles, we have all submitted ourselves to the service of Ibadanland and it is my prayer that we will all be rewarded for our services by the owner of the land.

 “I cannot forget to extend my gratitude to the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) and the generality of the people of Ibadanland, both at home and in the diaspora, for their love and support so far,” he noted.

The Olubadan thanked all citizens for their great support in the past and solicited more of such support and cooperation in the journey ahead, in the quest for a better and more prosperous Ibadanland.

The 42nd Olubadan was installed and presented with the Staff of Office on 11th March, 2022, by Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, following the demise of his predecessor, Oba Saliu Akanmu Adetunji, on 2nd January of the same year.