By: Lauretta Fagbohun, Abeokuta.
Adebutu Installed Gbademu of Owu, The Ogun State governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Ladi Adebutu, has been installed as the Gbademu of Owu Kingdom, pledging to use the traditional title to promote development across Owu, Egba and Ogun State.
Adebutu received the title on Tuesday at the palace of the Olowu of Owu Kingdom in Abeokuta, during a ceremony attended by traditional rulers, political leaders, family members, friends and other dignitaries. Former Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, was represented by his wife, Mrs Olufunso Amosun.
Speaking after his installation, Adebutu expressed gratitude to the Olowu, Oba Saka Matemilola, and the people of Owu Kingdom for finding him worthy of the honour, describing the title as a call to greater service and a commitment to the development of the people.
He said his family’s longstanding roots in Abeokuta made the recognition particularly significant, adding that the honour would strengthen his resolve to contribute to the progress of Owu Kingdom and Ogun State.
Adebutu said, “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.”
Presenting the certificates to Adebutu and his wife, the Olowu charged the newly installed Gbademu and Yeye Gbademu to deploy their positions towards the advancement of Owu Kingdom and Ogun State. The monarch described Adebutu as a man of unquestionable character whose commitment to the people informed the decision to honour him.
Oba Matemilola urged the couple to regard their new positions as responsibilities to serve the people and support initiatives capable of improving their welfare. “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.
Mrs Adebutu, who was also installed Yeye Gbademu, described the honour as both a privilege and a responsibility, pledging to support initiatives focused on the welfare and development of women, families and the wider Owu community. She promised to work alongside her husband to contribute meaningfully to the growth of Owu Kingdom and Ogun State.
