Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, on Sunday, visited the Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, at the monarch’s palace in Ile-Ife to formally present his Certificate of Return following his victory in the August 15, 2026 governorship election.
Adeleke, who was accompanied by his deputy, Prince Kola Adewusi; the Chairman of the Imole Campaign Council, Professor Wale Oladipo; members of the State Executive Council; government officials; and other political stakeholders, described the visit as an occasion of thanksgiving and appreciation.
The governor said he was at the palace to present the certificate to the Ooni and seek his continued prayers and support as he prepares to continue governing the state.
“We are here to praise God and to show appreciation. I came here to present the Certificate of Return. I feel Baba’s prayers. Whenever I encounter challenges, I always feel the courage that Baba has prayed for me, and I feel the prayer,” Adeleke said.
He also expressed appreciation to the people of Ile-Ife for their support, noting that the ancient city had continued to witness transformation under his administration.
In his response, Ooni Ogunwusi called for peace, unity, and sustained development across Osun State.
The monarch urged political leaders and residents to place the interests of the people above partisan considerations, stressing the need for collective efforts towards the progress of the state.
The Ooni, who is the Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC), Arole Oodua Olofin Adimula and Natural Head of the Oduduwa race worldwide, is also the Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN).
The monarch’s position was contained in a statement issued by the Senior Media Officer of the Ooni’s Palace, Sodiq Lawal, on behalf of the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Moses Olafare.
