By Law Ibitoye
The Senate Leader of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, has been conferred with the prestigious chieftaincy title of Olu Omo of Iyin Kingdom in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the growth and development of the community and Ekiti State at large.
The honour was bestowed on him on Saturday during the 2025 Iyin Day Celebration held at the Oluyin’s Palace, Iyin-Ekiti, in Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area of Ekiti State. The event also marked a threefold celebration — the annual Iyin Day, the 75th anniversary of the unification of Iyin Kingdom, and the fifth coronation anniversary of the Oluyin of Iyin Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Oba Adeola Ajakaye.
In his remarks, Senator Bamidele, an illustrious son of the town, reaffirmed his commitment to the overall development of Iyin-Ekiti and other communities within Ekiti Central Senatorial District. He announced that 20 percent of the funds raised during the Iyin Day event would be equitably distributed among the remaining 36 towns in his senatorial district as part of efforts to promote balanced development and regional inclusiveness.
The Senate Leader who announced a donation of coaster bus to Oluyin -in- Council emphasized the importance of unity, shared prosperity, and community-driven growth, noting that his pledge to extend support across the district was borne out of his belief that “no town should be left behind in the quest for progress and development.”
Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, who graced the occasion alongside several National Assembly members and traditional rulers, commended Bamidele’s leadership style and contributions to national development. He described the Senate Leader as “the pillar and engine room of the Senate,” lauding his commitment to the welfare of Ekiti people and the unity of Nigeria.
“This man, your son, is the pillar of the Senate. Whatever he does, he thinks first of Ekiti, then of Nigeria. He works tirelessly to build consensus for the greater good of the nation,” Senator Jibrin stated, while also pledging to personally support the proposed Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences facilitated by Senator Bamidele to Iyin-Ekiti.
In his royal address, the Oluyin of Iyin Kingdom, Oba Adeola Ajakaye, described the celebration as a reflection of unity, heritage, and progress. He disclosed that the ₦1 billion development fund being raised would be channelled into key community projects such as the construction of a modern event pavilion, shopping complex, housing units, hall of fame, and youth empowerment initiatives.
The monarch highlighted some achievements recorded during his five-year reign, including the introduction of solar-powered streetlights, road rehabilitation, construction of an ultra-modern market, and free medical outreaches — which featured ear and eye surgeries.
“These achievements are not mere coincidences; they are fruits of unity, sacrifice, and shared vision. When Iyin speaks with one voice and works with one purpose, nothing is impossible,” Oba Ajakaye declared.
The event attracted dignitaries from across Nigeria, including political leaders, royal fathers, and prominent citizens, in what many described as “a celebration of unity in diversity.” It showcased Iyin Kingdom’s rich cultural heritage and collective commitment to sustainable development.