Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has revealed that he is set to accept a chieftaincy title from the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, Odundun II, marking a notable exception to his long-standing refusal of awards and titles while in office.

The governor disclosed this while receiving a delegation from the Deji at his residence in Ibadan. He explained that since taking office, he has deliberately declined all recognitions to allow for an objective assessment of his performance.

“I have consistently turned down chieftaincy titles and awards to avoid creating bias around my leadership,” Makinde said. “But I am honoured to make an exception for Akure — the land of my maternal roots.”

He emphasized the emotional significance of the recognition, noting:

“There is always a saying that a prophet is not honoured in his hometown, but I am more than happy that my honour as a prophet will begin from my maternal home of Akure.”

According to a statement from the Chief Press Secretary to the Deji, Mr. Michael Adeyeye, the chieftaincy title will be officially conferred during the monarch’s tenth coronation anniversary celebration in July.

Leading the delegation, the Olu of Okelisa Titun, Olu Adekunle Ajanaku, praised Governor Makinde for his impactful leadership in Oyo State and notable contributions to national development. He described the chieftaincy honour as a tribute to Makinde’s integrity, humility, and longstanding support for the Akure Kingdom.

In his response, the governor reaffirmed his commitment to the development of Akure and its institutions, citing projects such as the renovation of St. David’s Cathedral as examples of his ongoing investment in the community.