The Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba Saka Matemilola, has conferred traditional titles on the Ogun State governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Ladi Adebutu, and his wife, Adenike.
Adebutu was installed as the Gbademu of Owu Kingdom, while his wife received the title of Yeye Gbademu.
The investiture took place on Tuesday at the palace of the Olowu in Abeokuta, Ogun State, in the presence of traditional rulers, political leaders, relatives, friends and other dignitaries.
Among those who attended the ceremony was the wife of former Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, Mrs Olufunso Amosun, who represented her husband.
While presenting certificates to the newly installed title holders, Oba Matemilola said the honours were bestowed on the couple in recognition of their contributions to community development and their commitment to improving the welfare of the people.
The monarch particularly praised Adebutu’s character, describing him as a man whose contributions to society and willingness to support development had earned him the confidence of the traditional institution.
Oba Matemilola urged the couple to see their new positions beyond ceremonial recognition, stressing that the titles came with responsibilities to contribute meaningfully to the progress of Owu Kingdom and Ogun State.
The monarch said the couple were expected to deploy their influence and resources toward initiatives that would improve the living conditions of the people.
Responding, Adebutu thanked the Olowu and the people of Owu Kingdom for the honour, describing the recognition as a renewed responsibility to serve and contribute to the development of the community.
He said his family’s longstanding connection with Abeokuta made the recognition particularly significant to him, adding that he regarded the title as a call to greater service rather than merely a traditional honour.
Adebutu pledged that he and his wife would use their new positions to support development initiatives across Owu Kingdom, Egba and Ogun State.
He 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.”
The PDP governorship candidate added that his family had deep roots in Abeokuta, making the recognition especially meaningful.
He said the honour would further strengthen his resolve to contribute to the growth and wellbeing of the people.
His wife, Adenike, also expressed gratitude to the Olowu and the people of Owu Kingdom, describing her installation as both a privilege and a responsibility.
She pledged to work with her husband in supporting programmes and initiatives aimed at improving the welfare 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.
