By Joy Omagha Idam
The ancient city of Ile-Ife witnessed a remarkable convergence of traditional authority and political leadership on Thursday as the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, showered praises on Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, describing him as a rare leader whose humility, simplicity and close connection with the people distinguish him from many of his contemporaries.
The royal commendation came when Governor Okpebholo, accompanied by Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, paid a courtesy visit to the revered monarch at his palace in Ile-Ife, Osun State.
Receiving the two governors, the Ooni expressed delight at their visit, saying their leadership style reflects the virtues of service, accessibility and humility that Nigerians desire in public office holders. According to him, despite occupying influential positions, both governors have remained approachable and deeply connected to ordinary citizens.
“We are very honoured and privileged to receive the two governors in the palace. The entire Yoruba race is delighted to have governors with such rare characteristics,” the monarch declared.
In a glowing tribute, the Ooni described humility as one of the greatest qualities of effective leadership, noting that Governors Okpebholo and Ododo have demonstrated exceptional simplicity in both character and conduct.
“These two governors are among the most humble leaders we have produced in Nigeria. Everything about them reflects humility and simplicity. They are easy-going, amiable and down-to-earth. I have watched their disposition and mannerisms closely, and they do not allow the high offices they occupy to separate them from the people,” he said.
For the revered monarch, Governor Okpebholo’s leadership philosophy embodies the cherished Yoruba concept of Omoluabi—a person of honour, integrity, humility and good character. He urged the Edo governor to remain steadfast in that path, stressing that leadership rooted in humility leaves a lasting legacy.
“We are here to celebrate you. I know you came to Osun State for politics, but beyond politics, we are talking about what the Yoruba call Omoluabi par excellence. Your simplicity and your approach to leadership are admirable. Keep it up. That is the best way to lead the people,” the Ooni advised.
Speaking during the visit, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, who addressed the monarch on behalf of both governors at Governor Okpebholo’s request, expressed appreciation to the Ooni for his unwavering commitment to promoting peace and stability in Osun State and across Nigeria.
“We are here to thank Your Majesty for your fatherly role in preserving peace, not only in Osun State but throughout the nation,” Governor Ododo said.
He explained that the visit underscored the governors’ commitment to strengthening national unity, fostering peaceful coexistence and reinforcing the enduring relationship between elected leaders and traditional institutions.
The visit also highlighted Governor Monday Okpebholo’s continued engagement with Nigeria’s traditional rulers as strategic partners in promoting peace, cultural harmony and inclusive governance. As custodians of history, culture and community values, traditional institutions remain critical stakeholders in nation-building, and the Edo governor’s outreach reflects his administration’s belief that sustainable development thrives on collaboration, mutual respect and unity of purpose.
The courtesy visit concluded with renewed calls for stronger partnerships between governments and traditional institutions in advancing peace, strengthening national cohesion and delivering people-centred leadership across the country.