The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has openly commended Governor Ademola Adeleke for what he described as impactful, statewide development, throwing royal weight behind the ongoing Lagere flyover project as a critical infrastructure for Ile-Ife.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the governor to his palace, the monarch described Lagere as the economic and social hub of Ifeland, stressing that the flyover and road dualisation projects are essential to easing movement and boosting activity across the region.
He dismissed claims in some quarters that development under Adeleke is concentrated in Ede, insisting that the governor’s projects are visible across Osun State.
“From all corners of Ife, Lagere is a meeting point. The flyover is necessary, and we appreciate the commitment to its completion,” the Ooni said, while urging the state government to accelerate construction.
The monarch went further to offer prayers for the governor’s political future, describing his leadership as impactful and urging him to remain focused.
Meanwhile, political momentum gathered in Ile-Ife as members of the Igbekele Oluwa Cooperative Society staged a massive endorsement rally in support of Adeleke’s re-election.
The group, said to have over 30,000 members, declared its unanimous backing for the governor at a gathering in Enuwa. Its president, Chief Abubakar Bulliaminu Olanrewaju, said the endorsement reflects widespread satisfaction with the current administration.
According to him, the cooperative movement has witnessed tangible benefits under Adeleke’s leadership, citing infrastructure development, prompt salary payments, and grassroots-focused policies as key factors driving their support.
“We have seen the difference. This is why we are committed to ensuring continuity,” he said, adding that members would mobilise votes across communities.
Responding, Governor Adeleke reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive development, highlighting ongoing investments in key sectors including education, healthcare, youth development, and cooperative financing.
He described the cooperative sector as central to grassroots economic growth, noting that his government has committed billions of naira to strengthen its operations.
“The stronger the cooperative movement, the stronger the local economy,” the governor said, while calling on members to intensify mobilisation efforts ahead of the next election.
The visit to Ile-Ife and the subsequent endorsement rally signal growing political consolidation for the governor, particularly in key population centres seen as decisive in Osun’s electoral landscape.
