The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin has commended the Igbos for their contribution to the Oyo State economy and reiterated his commitment to peaceful co-existence amongst the various ethnic groups in the ancient city.
According to a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Gbenga Ayoade, in Ibadan, the state capital, on Wednesday, Oba Olakulehin gave the commendation while playing host to the state chapter of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, on Tuesday in his palace.
Olubadan, who spoke through the Agba Akin Balogun of Ibadanland, Senior Chief Rafiu Onideure, said Ibadan would continue to appreciate the economic contributions of the Igbo not just in Ibadanland but in the state and Nigeria as a whole.
“I implore you to continue with your business, social and religious activities peacefully and lawfully at all times as you have done in the past for the progress of Ibadanland.
“The contributions of the Igbos to commerce, trade and business in Ibadanland is worthy of commendation and well appreciated by all and sundry as it is a significant contributor to the Oyo State economy and by extension our nation.
“I want to enjoin other non-indigenes in Ibadan to emulate the good gesture of members of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo in extending the hand of friendship and fellowship to Ibadan indigenes.”
Earlier, the Coordinator of the group, Tallest Innocent, who doubles as the Special Assistant, Community Relations to Governor Seyi Makinde, expressed his gratitude to the Olubadan and the Oba-In Council for the warm reception accorded them during the visit.
“Apart from paying this visit, they were at the palace to introduce the newly elected executives of the state chapter of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide to His Imperial Majesty.”
He appreciated the monarch’s support before, during and after the peaceful process plus the inclusive governance approach of the traditional stool.
The PUNCH
