Oyo State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, has lambasted indigenes of Ibadan over the non-completion of the multi-million naira Olubadan Palace project.
Ajimobi said despite efforts to raise N400m for the project, the palace was still under construction.
Describing the project as not only deserving of the status of the city, the governor said Ibadan monarch needed a dignifying palace.
Ajimobi spoke on Saturday at the grand finale of the Ibadan Cultural Festival held at Obafemi Awolowo Stadium (Formerly Liberty Stadium), Ibadan.
The Governor said “That the entire Ibadan indigenes could not raise the N400 Million fund needed for the befitting palace is a thing of shame.”
At the event were prominent indigenes of the ancient city, among whom were Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu Akanmu Adetunji,members of the Olubadan- in- Council, Chief Adebayo Akande, Chairman of the Ibadan Cultural Festival 2017, Princess Olaide Salawu, President of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Chief Wole Akinwande, the Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland , Edo and Delta states, Alhaji Dawud Makanjuola Akinola and the Chairman of Ibadan Elders Forum (IEF), Ambassador Olu Sanu, the leader of Igbo Community in Ibadan and Oyo state, Dr. Alex Anozie, among others.
Ajimobi who commended the CCII and other Ibadan organisations for this year’s event charged the indigenes of the city to ensure that they donated generously for the completion of the palace.
“I know of some towns that are too small in the country, but the palaces of their kings are far more befitting. Yet these towns are not up to a quarter of Ibadan.
“So, I am challenging all of you to donate towards the realisation of the N400 Million to ensure that Ibadan build a befitting palace for our monarch”, he said.
Ajimobi also urged the indigenes to fight against corruption, poverty, thuggery and blood shed.
He explained that development could only be achieved if the city is peaceful and clean, saying “We need to foster trade and commerce by investing in the cleanliness of Ibadan.
“We need to join hands together to build a clean environment”.
He further explained the criteria for massive road construction in different parts of the state, to attract investors and commerce to develop the city.
Earlier in her welcome address, Salawu called on sons and daughters of Ibadanland to strive for its growth and development.
“If you have been so much blessed in Ibadan, then this land is your Jerusalem.
“Don’t let it be one day affair. Seek for peace, cleanliness and advancement of Ibadanland and all who love her shall prosper “, she stated.
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