The new Onimesi of Imesi-Ekiti, Oba Festus Olatunji Olatunde, on Monday received his instrument of appointment and staff of office from Ekiti state governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi.
As Fayemi handed the new monarch his staff of office at a brief ceremony, the governor called for concerted efforts to battle COVID-19 to a standstill.
Represented by the Deputy Governor, Otunba Bisi Egbeyemi, Fayemi commended traditional rulers for their cooperation and understanding on the fight against COVID-19 demanding more support to defeat the pandemic in the state.
According to a statement by the Special Assistant (Media) to the Deputy Governor, Odunayo Ogunmola, the appointment of Oba Olatunde was approved by the State Executive Council at its virtual meeting on June 11.
Oba Olatunde, a former Commissioner for Works in the state, succeeds the last Onimesi, the late Oba Dare Adeyeye Oladimeji, who died on December 22, 2018.
Some of the supporters and well-wishers of the new monarch stayed outside the Governor’s Office complex throughout the event to ensure that not more than twenty persons were inside the hall.
Fayemi who also showered praises on monarchs in the state for the sustenance of peace and stability in their domains, stressing that all hands must be on deck to prevent COVID-19 from having adverse effects on the local economy.
He said: “I particularly appreciate you all for the cooperation and understanding with the government in our fight against the spread of the dreaded virus known as COVID-19.
“We are still seeking more support from all and sundry to triumph over the virus and prevent it from collapsing our socio-economic activities in totality.”