The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has commended Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo for what he described as a leadership style rooted in humility and service to the people.
The royal commendation came on Thursday when Governor Okpebholo, accompanied by Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, paid a courtesy visit to the Ooni at his palace in Ile-Ife, Osun State, according to a statement issued by the Edo governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Patrick Ebojele.
Receiving the governors, the monarch said their modesty and approachable nature set them apart from many other public office holders, noting that they had remained closely connected to ordinary citizens despite occupying influential positions.
“We are very honoured and privileged to receive the two governors in the palace. The entire Yoruba race is happy and delighted to have governors with such rare characteristics,” the monarch said.
The Ooni stressed that humility remains an essential quality of good leadership, adding that both governors had consistently displayed exemplary conduct.
“These two governors are the most humble governors we have ever produced in Nigeria. Everything about them is humility and simplicity. They are very humble, easy-going and amiable.
“I have watched them closely—their disposition, mannerisms and simplicity. They don’t carry themselves because of the high offices they occupy. They are down-to-earth and well connected to ordinary people,” he said.
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He further encouraged Governor Okpebholo to remain steadfast in his style of leadership, describing it as a reflection of the Yoruba ideal of Omoluabi.
“We are here to celebrate you. I know you came to Osun State for politics, but beyond politics, we are talking about what the Yoruba call Omoluabi par excellence.
Your simplicity and your approach to things, keep it up. That is the best way to live life and lead the people. Keep up the good work,” he said.
Responding on behalf of both governors, Governor Ododo explained that Okpebholo had requested him to speak during the visit.
He expressed appreciation to the Ooni for his efforts in sustaining peace in Osun State and contributing to national harmony.
“We are here to thank Your Majesty for keeping peace, not only in Osun State but across the nation,” Ododo said.
He noted that the visit was intended to strengthen peace, unity and cooperation among the people of Osun State while supporting broader efforts aimed at fostering national cohesion.
The visit also underscored Governor Okpebholo’s continued engagement with traditional institutions as part of initiatives to promote peace, unity and inclusive governance.