By Daniel Oluwatobiloba Popoola
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has described Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo and Kogi State Governor Ahmed Ododo as the most humble governors Nigeria has ever produced, praising their people-centred approach to governance during a courtesy visit to his palace.
The monarch spoke on Thursday, 6 August, 2026 when Okpebholo, accompanied by Ododo, visited the Ooni’s Palace in Ile-Ife, Osun State, according to a statement issued by Okpebholo’s Chief Press Secretary, Patrick Ebojele.
Welcoming the governors, the Ooni said their humility and simplicity distinguished them from many of their contemporaries, noting that they had remained connected to ordinary Nigerians despite holding high public offices.
“We are very honoured and privileged to receive the two governors in the palace. The entire Yoruba race is happy and delighted to have governors with such rare characteristics,” the monarch said.
He described humility as a defining attribute of effective leadership, insisting that both governors had demonstrated qualities worthy of emulation. “These two governors are the most humble governors we have ever produced in Nigeria. Everything about them is humility and simplicity. They are very humble, easy-going and amiable,” he said.
The Ooni added that he had observed the governors closely over time and found their conduct consistent with their public image.
“I have watched them closely their disposition, mannerisms and simplicity. They don’t carry themselves because of the high offices they occupy. They are down-to-earth and well connected to ordinary people,” he said.
Turning to Okpebholo specifically, the monarch urged him to sustain his leadership style, linking it to the Yoruba value of Omoluabi.
“We are here to celebrate you. I know you came to Osun State for politics, but beyond politics, we are talking about what the Yoruba call Omoluabi par excellence. Your simplicity and your approach to things, keep it up. That is the best way to live life and lead the people. Keep up the good work,” he said.
Responding on behalf of the two governors, Ododo, who said Okpebholo had asked him to address the monarch during the visit, thanked the Ooni for his role in promoting peace across the country.
“We are here to thank Your Majesty for keeping peace, not only in Osun State but across the nation,” he said.
Ododo explained that the visit was aimed at promoting peace, unity and stronger ties among the people of Osun State, while supporting broader efforts to foster national cohesion.
The visit further highlighted Okpebholo’s continued engagement with traditional institutions, part of a wider strategy to strengthen partnerships that promote peace, unity and inclusive governance.
