The Ogun State governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. 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 Ogun State at large.
Adebutu was installed on Tuesday at the palace of the Olowu of Owu Kingdom 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.
The former governor of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, was represented at the ceremony by his wife, Mrs Olufunso Amosun.
Speaking shortly after his installation, Adebutu expressed appreciation to the Olowu 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 stated.
The Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba Saka Matemilola, while presenting the certificates to the newly installed Gbademu and Yeye Gbademu, charged 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.
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.”
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 also pledged to work alongside her husband, Ladi Adebutu, to contribute meaningfully to the development of Owu Kingdom and Ogun State.
