The Osun State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party has praised the conferment of a traditional title on Governor Ademola Adeleke by the Timi of Ede, Oba Munirudeen Adesola Lawal.
In a social media post on Monday, Adeleke’s Special Adviser on New and Digital Media, Olalekan Badmus, announced the arrival of dignitaries for the governor’s installation.
In a video, he posted, “Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, arrives at the Osun State Government House ahead of the installation of Governor Ademola Adeleke as the Asiwaju of Ede.”
The title “Asiwaju of Ede Land,” bestowed upon Adeleke as part of his 64th birthday celebrations, is seen by the PDP as a resounding validation of his leadership prowess.
Adeleke succeeded his late brother and former governor of the state, Senator Isiaka Adeleke, a position he held until his demise in April 2017.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Monday by the Osun State PDP Chairman, Sunday Bisi.
Bisi described it as a lifetime birthday gift, further proof of the unprecedented popularity of Governor Adeleke among well-meaning Nigerians, at home and abroad.
“It should be noted that, as part of activities marking the 64th birthday anniversary of Governor Ademola Adeleke, the Ede traditional council, in a no objection resolution, conferred on His Excellency the title of Asiwaju of Ede Land.
“The title is the highest traditional honour often reserved for men of implacable standing in the history-packed community.
“The traditional honour was last bestowed on the elder brother of the governor, the late Asiwaju Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke. He was himself a former governor and the first democratically elected chief executive of the state.”
The PDP described Adeleke as an extraordinary gift to humanity, whose friendly demeanor is inspiring and reflects simplicity in the divine art of greatness.
“Asiwaju Ademola Adeleke has become a goldfish with no place to hide, and we are glad His Excellency is living this naturally ahead of time.”
“It is one thing to be blessed with the natural regalia of leadership; it is another thing to be conscious of the calling.
“It is also another thing to choose what to do with such a rare gift in the competing world of egocentrism. We are happy Mr Governor appreciates the divine blessings in his life.
“We are indeed proud on this day to be called by the name of our great leader, Asiwaju Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke. The world is blessed to have you, and we are also part of that world.”
“We once again congratulate our people in Ede, especially the traditional council headed by Kabiyesi, Oba Munirudeen Adesola Lawal, for honouring a prophet in his land.
“We align ourselves with everyone who accepts the fact that great men should be called great in their lifetime and should also be honoured as such.”
The party noted that, on behalf of the State Working Committee of the PDP, they congratulate His Excellency on this historic attainment and wish him a memorable birthday.
Meanwhile, according to the Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Senator Olalere Oyewumi, the decision to confer the Asiwaju title on Adeleke is an acknowledgement and recognition of his significant contribution to the growth and development of Ede and Osun State at large.
