The ancient town of Upenmen in Owo was agog on Friday, July 26, 2024, as Chief Oluwaseyi Gabriel Ogundare, a prominent chieftain of the All Progressive Congress (APC), and his wife, Chief Mrs. Olajumoke Ogundare, were conferred with the titles of Aare and Erelu Gbobaniyi of Upenmen Kingdom. The chieftaincy titles were bestowed by the Olupenmen of Upenmen, HRM Oba Ebenezer Adewumi Ogunmolasuyi, and the Olupenmen-in-Council.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Olayide Owolabi Adelami, represented by Dr. Adekola Falohun, the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Ondo State Governor, praised Ogundare as an embodiment of empathy. He expressed confidence that Ogundare would continue to serve his community well, and pray that his political aspirations shall be accomplished.
Other speakers at the event described Chief Oluwaseyi Gabriel Ogundare as a philanthropist whose generosity transcends religious, political, and cultural boundaries. They also celebrated his wife, Chief Mrs. Olajumoke Ogundare, for her unwavering support and contributions.
The chieftaincy conferment ceremony was attended by a host of royal fathers, political bigwigs, and supporters. Among the distinguished guests were His Royal Majesty Oba Dr. Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, Olowo of Owo; HRM Oba Engr. Ademola Adebiyi Oyinbade Olanipekun III, PhD, Oloba of Usoland, Olubaka of Oka, represented by Chief Dr. Ajobiewe Pius; Chief Rotimi Ibidapo (Bassey); Mr. Ebenezer Olufowose; Dr. Mrs. Adejumoke Aborode Eniola; political leaders such as Dr. Bosede Osamaye, Special Adviser on Women affairs to the Ondo State Governor; Hon. Kevin Solomon Olaolu (KSO), Senior Special Assistant on Student matters to Ondo state Governor; Mr. Smart Omodunbi, Special Assistant to the Ondo State Governor on Political Matters; former Rep Members, Dr. Bode Ayorinde, who is also the founder of Achievers University, Owo; Hon. Tajudeen Adefisoye (Small Alhaji). Also present were Hon. Tomide Akinrinbido; Hon. Dennis Alonge, Oluseyi Olujimi, the State Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), among others.
The event marked a significant celebration in Upenmen, highlighting the community’s recognition of the Ogundares’ contributions and their continued commitment to the development and unity of the region.
Peoplesmind
