The meeting, which commenced at precisely 12:50 p.m., marks a significant moment in the history of traditional governance and community engagement in the region. The event opened with prayers offered by key religious leaders including the Chief Imam of Iresaadu, Sheikh Adepoju; a representative of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN); and Oba Isegun of Iresaadu, reflecting the unity of faiths and leadership in the community.
The event brimmed with royalty and high-profile dignitaries. Traditional rulers from across Surulere Local Government were present in full regalia, among them the Alapa of Okin-Apa, Onijabata of Jabata, Oloko of Oko, Iba Iyaoje, Balogun Olugbon, Olodanbon of Odanbon, and Oluwofin of Iwofin. Their presence signaled a strong show of solidarity with the Soun and a renewed commitment to regional unity.
High Chiefs of Iresaadu, including the Balogun, Ikolaba, Bara, Areago, and Otun Aresa, also graced the occasion, lending further legitimacy to the engagement. The venue was abuzz with a sense of renewed hope and reconciliation, as community members, youth leaders, women groups, and traditional council representatives gathered to listen to the monarch’s message.
This landmark gathering comes in the wake of media reports earlier this week alleging widespread rejection of the meeting by Iresaadu residents. The reports, which stirred tension across Oyo State, claimed that the people had warned Oba Ghandi not to set foot in the town. However, investigations later revealed that the resistance was orchestrated by a small group of political detractors who are not residents of Iresaadu and have no mandate to speak for the community.
Ahead of the open session, Oba Ghandi held a closed-door meeting with traditional rulers and select chiefs. The media was barred from the session, indicating the strategic and sensitive nature of the discussions. Sources say the preliminary meeting focused on strengthening inter-town relationships, addressing communal grievances, and setting a new agenda for peace and development across Surulere and Ogbomosoland.
The Soun arrived with members of his royal cabinet, including prominent Ogbomoso traditional figures such as the Aare Alaasa and the Onisapa of Isapa, underscoring the gravity of the occasion and his intention to foster inclusivity across all quarters of the land.
As Oba Ghandi prepared to address the audience, expectations soared high. Many looked forward to hearing his vision for the future of Ogbomosoland and his plans to bridge gaps, heal old wounds, and usher in a new era of unity and sustainable development.
Today’s successful meeting in Iresaadu serves as a resounding rebuttal to naysayers and affirms Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye’s rising stature as a monarch committed to dialogue, transparency, and the holistic progress of his people.
