PHOTOS: Ogun monarch honours PDP gov candidate, Adebutu, wife

The Ogun State Peoples Democratic Party governorship candidate, Ladi Adebutu, has been installed as the Gbademu of Owu Kingdom, with a pledge to use the traditional title to promote development across Owu, Egba and the state at large.

Adebutu was installed on Tuesday at the palace of the Olowu of Owu Kingdom in Abeokuta, the state capital, in a ceremony attended by traditional rulers, political leaders, family members, friends and other dignitaries.

His wife, Adenike Adebutu, was also installed as the Yeye Gbademu of the kingdom.

Former Ogun governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, was represented at the ceremony by his wife, Olufunso Amosun.

Speaking shortly after his installation, Adebutu expressed appreciation to the monarch and the people of Owu Kingdom for finding him worthy of the honour, saying the title would further strengthen his commitment to the development of the people.

According to him, the honour was not merely a traditional recognition but a call to greater service to the community and the state.

Adebutu also stressed his family’s longstanding connection with Abeokuta, noting that his roots in the city made the honour particularly significant to him and his family.

“We will use this title to bring development, not only to Owu Kingdom, but also to Egba and Ogun State at large. This honour comes with a responsibility, and we will do our best to justify the confidence reposed in us.

“My family has deep roots in Abeokuta, and this recognition is, therefore, very dear to us. We see it as a call to contribute more meaningfully to the growth and development of our people.

“This is not just a title; it is a call to service. Together, we will continue to support the growth and development of our people and contribute positively to the progress of Owu Kingdom,” Adebutu assured.

The Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba Saka Matemilola, while presenting the certificates to the newly installed Gbademu and Yeye Gbademu, urged them to work diligently towards the development of Owu Kingdom and Ogun State.

The monarch described Adebutu as a man of unquestionable character, adding that his qualities and contributions to society informed the decision to honour him with the traditional title.

“Ladi Adebutu is a man of unquestionable character. This title is a recognition of his personality, his commitment to the people and his capacity to contribute to the development of our kingdom.

“I charge you to work hard and use this honour to promote development in Owu and Ogun State. The title comes with responsibility, and we expect you to live up to the confidence placed in you,” said the monarch.

Speaking earlier after her installation, Mrs Adebutu described the traditional title as a privilege and a responsibility, promising to support initiatives aimed at improving the welfare and development of women, families and the wider Owu community.

“I am deeply honoured and grateful for this recognition. I accept this title with humility and a strong sense of responsibility. I will do my best to justify the confidence and honour that the Olowu and the people of Owu Kingdom have placed in me,” she stated.