At the Béèrè Festival held on Tuesday at the Oyo State Agricultural Development Programme (OYSADEP) Sports Complex, Hon. Shittu Ibraheem Aremu, representing Saki West State Constituency in the Oyo State House of Assembly, delivered a compelling address emphasizing the importance of inclusive governance and the recognition of traditional institutions in the state’s legislative framework.
Hon. Shittu expressed deep concern over the proposed amendments to the Council of Obas and Chiefs Law, which he argues could marginalize the traditional rulers of the Oke Ogun region. He stated that the omission of Oke Ogun royal fathers from the council’s chairman composition undermines the cultural heritage and political significance of the region.
“The traditional institutions of Oke Ogun have been pillars of our community’s identity and governance. Excluding our royal fathers from the Council of Obas and Chiefs chairman not only disrespects our heritage but also threatens the unity and inclusivity that Oyo State stands for,” Hon. Shittu remarked.
He further highlighted that members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), despite being in the minority within the House of Assembly, are united in opposing any legislative changes that would sideline the Oke Ogun traditional institutions.
Beyond the legislative chambers, Hon. Shittu extended his critique to the broader administrative landscape under Governor Seyi Makinde’s leadership. He challenged the governor to ensure equitable representation of Oke Ogun indigenes in key governmental positions, arguing that the region’s contributions to the state’s development warrant proportional inclusion in decision-making processes.
“It’s imperative that the administration recognizes the talents and capabilities of Oke Ogun indigenes. Our people have consistently contributed to the state’s progress, and it’s only fair that we are adequately represented in the corridors of power,” he asserted.
Hon. Shittu’s advocacy aligns with ongoing discussions about regional representation in Oyo State’s political sphere. Notably, former Minister of Communications, Adebayo Shittu, has previously criticized the concentration of gubernatorial power in Ibadan, advocating for a rotational leadership model that would allow regions like Oke Ogun to ascend to the state’s highest office.
