Date: 2010-01-24

The Kwara State Governor, Dr. Bukola Saraki has described traditional Institution as the bedrock of any sustainable democracy which should be empowered to play its statutory functions.

Dr. Saraki made the observation at the weekend in offa, headquarters of Offa Local Government, while speaking at the 40th coronation anniversary of the Olofa of Offa, Oba Mustapha Olawore Olanipekun, Ariwajoye II.

The Governor explained that traditional Institution in the state has been instrumental to the success of his administration through advisory role, maintenance of peace and order in their domains  and mobilization of their subjects for government activities.

His said it was in recognition of these enormous roles that his administration gave priority attention to the wellbeing of traditional Rulers in the State.

The Governor praised the people of Offa for being industrious and enterprising who had contributed immensely to the socio-economic and political development of the State.

He assured the people of Offa of adequate support from the state government and prayed God to continue to grant the Monarch sound health and wisdom to pilot the affairs of Offa Community to greater height.

In his remark, The Chairman of Offa Local Government Council, Barrister Segun Olawoyin commended Governor Saraki for sponsoring the medical trip of the Olofa abroad.

Olawoyin noted with delight that the reign of  Oba Olanipekun had witnessed rapid transformation in Offa in the last 40 years.

Earlier in his address, The Olofa of Offa and the celebrant, Oba Olanipekun had praised  Dr Saraki for his visionary leadership which he said, had helped to bring accelerated socio-economic emancipation of the people of the State.

Oba Olanipekun, whose speech was read by his son, Dr. Abdul-Azeez Olanipekun advocated constitutional provisions to institutionalize traditional councils as functional organs of government in the nation’s Constitution.

The Monarch also called for the inclusion of traditional institution as the fourth tier of government in the on-going constitutional review.

The Olofa, who described his 40th coronation anniversary as the fulfillment of his personal aspiration for being the longest and the most peaceful in the history of Offa, commended the people of Offa for their support.

Oba Olanipekun, a prominent First Class Ruler in the State, ascended the throne as the 23rd Olofa of Offa on the 21st of January, 1970