Sèyí Mákindé, Governor of Oyo State has inaugurated the newly built ultra-modern palace at Oke Aremo, Ibadan, ahead of the coronation of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.
The palace, which has been under construction for many years, was recently completed, and Ọba Owólabí Olàkúlẹ́hìn is set to be the First Monarch to occupy the edifice.
The new palace said to be constructed and built in the pattern and standard of Buckingham Palace was estimated at ₦800 million.
“I want to specially recognize the efforts of two people. The first person is late Governor Abiola Ajimobi who was bold and audacious in taking the very first step in actualizing this palace project.
“Chief Bayo Oyero is the second person who I want to specially recognize. Initially, we were told that he was responsible for the delay in executing the project but I know that he was an asset to Oyo State and Nigeria. Hence, let me officially recognize you today. On behalf of Ibadan, I say thank you Baba.”
He also appreciated all sons and daughters of Ibadanland.
The President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Barrister Ajeniyi Ajewole, remarked that the project’s completion has ended the longstanding mockery of Ibadan by outsiders, who used to say that despite its uniqueness, Ibadan did not have a palace of its own.
Meanwhile, the Olubadan-designate, represented by the Osi Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Lateef Adebimpe, expressed gratitude to the Oyo State government for its role in completing the project.
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