Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, on Friday formally conferred a beaded crown and presented the instruments of office to the Oniro of Komu, His Royal Highness, Oba Jonah Awujoola Olagboyega Kolade II.
This was as the governor equally reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening traditional institutions as critical partners in governance and grassroots development.
The conferment officially elevates Oba Jonah Awujoola Olagboyega Kolade to the status of a beaded crown monarch, indicating a major new chapter in the history of the Komu in Itesiwaju local government area of the state.
The colourful ceremony, held at Komu-Babaode High School in Komu, Itesiwaju Local Government Area of the state, attracted traditional rulers, government officials, community leaders, religious figures, and sons and daughters of the ancient town from within and outside the state.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Barrister Waheed Ajuwon, who represented the Commissioner, Chief Ademola Ojo on behalf of governor Makinde at the event, described the occasion as a historic milestone not only for the Komu Kingdom but also for Oyo State.
He stated that the conferment of the beaded crown was a recognition of the kingdom’s historical relevance, cultural heritage and enduring contributions to the development of the state.
“It is with immense pleasure that I join the good people of Komu to celebrate this historic occasion of the conferment of a Beaded Crown on His Royal Highness, Oba Jonah Awujoola Olagboyega Kolade, the Oniro of Komu.
“In exercise of the powers conferred on me by Section 28(1), Volume I of the Chiefs Law of Oyo State, Nigeria, 2000, and all other powers enabling me in that behalf, I hereby confer on you the title of His Royal Majesty, Oba Jonah Awujoola Olagboyega Kolade, the Oniro of Komu,” the governor declared.
He noted that the elevation of the monarch went beyond the conferment of a royal title, stressing that it reflected the state’s appreciation of the rich history, resilience and unity of the Komu people.
Congratulating the monarch, chiefs, and indigenes of Komu both at home and in the diaspora, Makinde described the royal recognition as a testament to the community’s enduring cultural heritage and collective aspirations as a people.
The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to protecting the sanctity of traditional institutions, describing royal fathers as indispensable partners in governance, conflict resolution, grassroots development, security and the preservation of the state’s customs and traditions.
According to him, the conferment of the beaded crown followed due process and strict compliance with the provisions of the Chiefs Law, reflecting his administration’s commitment to transparency, fairness and equity in matters relating to traditional institutions.
“The conferment of a Beaded Crown on the Oniro of Komu is therefore a product of due process and careful consideration. It reflects our determination to accord deserving traditional institutions the recognition they merit while preserving peace, equity and harmony across Oyo State,” he stated.
Makinde charged the newly crowned monarch to view the honour as a call to greater service, urging him to continue serving as a symbol of unity, justice and selfless leadership.
He encouraged Oba Kolade to promote peaceful coexistence, champion community development, empower young people and strengthen collaboration with government in delivering democratic dividends to the people.
Addressing residents of Komu, the governor appealed for continued support for the traditional institution, noting that sustainable development could only thrive in an atmosphere of peace, unity and mutual respect.
He further assured the people that his administration would sustain investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, security and economic development across the state while maintaining strong partnerships with traditional rulers to bring governance closer to the grassroots.
Makinde also pledged that his administration would continue to uphold the dignity of the traditional institution and maintain cordial relations with royal fathers, whom he described as critical stakeholders in the development and progress of Oyo State.
In his brief acceptance speech, Oba Kolade II, expressed profound gratitude to the governor for the elevation describing the gesture as a historic milestone in the life of Komu people.
While also appreciating the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters for the acceleration of the coronation process, the monarch promised to work collaboratively with government at all levels as well as traditional leaders towards deepening peace, unity, and socioeconomic development of Komu.
Present at the event were traditional rulers from different parts of Oke-Ogun including the Aseyin of Iseyin; Oba Sefiu Oyebola, religious leaders, sons and daughters of Komu.
