The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has installed and presented the Staff of Office to the new Olopeji of Opeji, in Odeda Local Government,  Oba Ganiyu Adesina, where he reaffirmed his administration's commitment to strengthening traditional institutions as vital partners in grassroots governance and community development.

Speaking further during the installation, the Governor said the presentation of the instruments of Office showed his administration's resolve to reposition traditional institutions in recognition of their strategic role in fostering peace, promoting development and serving as a bridge between the government and the people.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Dr. Rotimiolu Akinlesi, Gov. Abiodun said the appointment of the monarch was in line with the provisions of the Obas and Chiefs' Law of Ogun State, 2021, as well as the customs and traditions of the Opeji community.

The Governor reminded the new monarch of the boundaries of his traditional authority, noting that as a Coronet Oba, his jurisdiction remained within Opeji town, while advising him against appointing Baales in other communities, stressing that such powers were outside the scope of his office.

Abiodun also commended the people of Opeji for maintaining peace and unity throughout the process that culminated in the elevation of the traditional stool to Obaship status,  urging the people to continue to support the monarch to accelerate socio-economic development in the community.

In a separate goodwill messages, the Baale, Alatibaba of Opeji, Chief Oseni Fasiu and the Asiwaju Iyalode of Opeji, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Adewuyi, congratulated Oba Adesina on his installation, describing him as a compassionate, selfless and visionary leader.

They attributed several developmental strides recorded in Opeji to the monarch's contributions before his ascension to the throne and encouraged him to sustain the momentum by attracting more development projects to the community.

In his acceptance speech, Oba Adesina, expressed gratitude to God and Governor Abiodun for the opportunity to serve his people.

 He pledged to lead with humility, fairness and dedication, assuring residents of an inclusive reign devoid of bias or favouritism.

The monarch also appealed to all sons and daughters of Opeji, both at home and in the diaspora, to support his reign, saying collective efforts were essential to achieving the desired growth and development of the community.