The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, on Thursday praised Monday Okpebholo, the Edo State Governor, and Ahmed Usman Ododo, the Kogi State Governor, for their humility and people-centred approach to governance.
According to a statement by Patrick Ebojele, Chief Press Secretary to Okpebholo, the monarch spoke when Okpebholo, accompanied by Ododo, paid a courtesy visit to the Ooni’s Palace in Ile-Ife, Osun State.
Oba Ogunwusi welcomed the governors and stated that their humility and simplicity set them apart from many of their contemporaries. He noted that they had remained connected to ordinary Nigerians despite holding high public offices.
“We are very honoured and privileged to receive the two governors in the palace. The entire Yoruba race is happy and delighted to have governors with such rare characteristics,” the monarch said.
He described humility as a key attribute of effective leadership and added that both governors had demonstrated qualities worthy of emulation.
“These two governors are the most humble governors we have ever produced in Nigeria. Everything about them is humility and simplicity. They are very humble, easy-going and amiable,” Oba Ogunwusi said.
He continued, “I have watched them closely, their disposition, mannerisms and simplicity. They don’t carry themselves because of the high offices they occupy. They are down-to-earth and well connected to ordinary people.”
The Ooni then urged Okpebholo to remain committed to his leadership style, saying it reflected the Yoruba value of Omoluabi.
“We are here to celebrate you. I know you came to Osun State for politics, but beyond politics, we are talking about what the Yoruba call Omoluabi par excellence. Your simplicity and your approach to things, keep it up. That is the best way to live life and lead the people. Keep up the good work,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the two governors, Ododo said Okpebholo had asked him to address the monarch. He thanked the Ooni for promoting peace in Osun State and across Nigeria.
“We are here to thank Your Majesty for keeping peace, not only in Osun State but across the nation,” Ododo said.
He explained that the visit aimed to promote peace, unity and stronger ties among the people of Osun State while supporting efforts to foster national cohesion. The engagement also highlighted Okpebholo’s partnership with traditional institutions to advance inclusive governance.
