The Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba Saka Matemilola has installed the Ogun governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Ladi Adebutu, as the Gbademu of Owu Kingdom.
Adebutu was conferred with the traditional title on Tuesday at the palace of the Olowu in Abeokuta, 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 Owu Kingdom.
Speaking shortly after his installation, Adebutu expressed appreciation to the Olowu and the people of Owu Kingdom for finding him worthy of the honour.
According to him, the title will further strengthen his commitment to the development of the people, adding it is not merely a traditional recognition but a call to greater service to the community and the state.
Adebutu stressed his family’s longstanding connection with Abeokuta, noting that his roots in the town 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’ll 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’ll continue to support the growth and development of our people and contribute positively to the progress of Owu Kingdom,” he said.
Oba 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 traditional ruler 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.
Oba Matemilola urged the couple to see their new positions as a responsibility to serve and support initiatives that would improve the lives of the people.
“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,” he said.
Speaking earlier, 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 said.
She also pledged to work alongside her husband to contribute meaningfully to the development of Owu Kingdom and Ogun state.
Part of the dignitaries present at the installation was the wife of the former governor of Ogun, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, Olufunso Amosun, who represented her husband.
