The Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Oyebanji, has congratulated the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe, on the occasion of his 80th birthday and 35 years on the throne.
The Governor, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, described the double milestone as a rare favour from God and a unique blessing to the royal father and the people of Ado Ekiti.
Oyebanji paid glowing tribute to Oba Adejugbe and described him as an influential monarch and visionary leader whose influence has helped shape Ado Ekiti into a befitting state capital. He recalled the pivotal involvement of the monarch in the movement that led to the creation of Ekiti State, acknowledging the sacrifices he made alongside other leaders to turn the long-held dream into reality.
The Governor said history will continue to honour the Ewi for his commitment, courage, and contributions to the state’s political identity.
Oyebanji described Oba Adejugbe as a father figure, mentor, and dependable source of wise counsel, saying his 35-year reign represents a golden era in the history of Ado Ekiti a period that witnessed massive growth and the city’s evolution into a vibrant metropolitan centre.
He also commended the Ewi for providing unifying leadership, which has engendered peace, harmony, and a shared sense of pride among Ado indigenes at home and in the diaspora; hence, inspiring them to contribute to the progress of their hometown and the state at large.
The Governor explained that Oba Adejugbe has remained a dependable custodian of Ado Ekiti’s cultural heritage and commanded national and international respect in the course of advancing community development and the prestige of the traditional institution.
Oyebanji ended the speech by praying for the continued blessings of God upon the monarch, wishing him long life, good health, and many more rewarding years on the throne in service to his kingdom, Ekiti State, and Nigeria.
