It was a historic and joyous occasion at Bodija Market today, July 22, 2025, as the Executive Governor of Oyo State, His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde, fulfilled a longstanding promise by donating a brand-new 18-seater bus to the Ibadan Foodstuff Sellers Association, Bodija Market Branch.
This remarkable gesture marks the fulfillment of a pledge made by the Governor on September 27, 2024, during the swearing-in of the association’s new executive members.
At that time, Chief Dauda Adegbenro (a.k.a. Darosa) emerged as Chairman, following the peaceful resolution of a protracted leadership crisis, thanks to the decisive intervention of Otunba Seye Fomojuro.
Representing the Governor at the handing-over ceremony was the Oloriebi of Omituntun, Hon. Babatunde Tijani, popularly known as Double T.
In his address, Hon. Tijani conveyed the Governor’s appreciation to the leadership of the association, led by Alhaji S.A. Jimoh, the Babaloja of Bodija Market, and Chief Adegbenro, Chairman of the Foodstuff Sellers Association, for maintaining peace and harmony in the market, in line with their earlier commitment to the state government.
“Bodija Market is not just any market; it is one of the most strategic commercial centers in Nigeria, and the Makinde-led administration holds it in high regard,” Hon. Tijani stated.
He further emphasized the unwavering efforts of Otunba Seye Fomojuro in ensuring the Governor’s promise was kept, describing him as a tireless advocate for the welfare and progress of the market community.
Hon. Tijani urged the association to continue supporting Governor Makinde and to make effective use of the newly donated bus for the benefit of their operations and members.
In his remarks of appreciation, Alhaji S.A. Jimoh, the Babaloja of Bodija Market, praised the Governor as a man of honor and integrity, noting that he has never made a promise he did not fulfill.
“This is a historic donation,” he declared.
“No administration has ever gifted such a valuable asset to this association. Governor Seyi Makinde has redefined politics and governance with empathy, action, and transparency.”
He also expressed gratitude to Otunba Seye Fomojuro, whom he described as a “peace ambassador” for his role in restoring unity to the market. Additionally, he commended the Executive Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government, Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade, for his unwavering support for the market community.
“Hon. Olufade is a humble and visionary leader whose leadership continues to bring us closer to good governance at the grassroots,” he added.
Amid thunderous chants of appreciation from elated traders, Hon. Babatunde Tijani formally handed over the keys to the 18-seater bus to the Babaloja of Bodija Market, Alhaji S.A. Jimoh, marking the climax of a day filled with gratitude, renewed hope, and a strengthened bond between government and the people.
The event attracted a rich array of dignitaries, including:
Hon. Kazim Adeniyi Adeyinka Bibire, Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Olufunke Comforter, Member, Oyo State House of Assembly (Ibadan North Constituency 1), Hon. Adebayo Babajide Gabriel, Member, OYHA (Ibadan North Constituency 2), Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade, Executive Chairman, Ibadan North Local Government, Hon. Akeem Ayoade, Vice Chairman, Ibadan North LG,Hon. Toyin Balogun, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, Hon. Babatunde olaniyan akoro, Chairman Oyo state college of health, science and technology, Hon. Taiwo Lekan Salami, Chairman, Shooting Stars Sports Club, Hon. Kabiru Salami De-Bomba, Executive Assistant on Security Coordination, Hon. Adetokunbo Adeaga, Chairman, OYCSDA, Hon. Julian Nwachuku, Special Assistant to the Governor on Ibadan North Federal Constituency, Hamdy Mustapha, Chief of Staff, Ibadan North LG, Comrade Mustapha, PDP Chairman, Ibadan North LG, Alhaji Y.K. Abass, Babaloja-General of Oyo State, Alhaji Muniru Bolaji, Babaloja Ibadan North LG, Alhaji S.A Jimoh , Babaloja Bodija, Alhaja Tantoloun, Iyaloja bodija market, chief Darosa, chairman Foodstuff Sellers Association bodija market, Alhaji M.A. Owolabi, HLA, Ibadan North LG, Mrs. Olusola Ejiade, Director of Administration and General Services, Councilors, Supervisory Councilors, Special Assistants, PDP leaders and Ward Chairmen (Wards 1–12), Executives of the Foodstuff Sellers Association, Market elders including Chief Wasiu Aderoju (Plank Sellers Chairman),Bashorun Oloja, Oloye Agoro, Baba Dauda Olalere, Alhaji Jimoh Adeleke, and Alhaja Fausat Azeez (a.k.a. Iya Rodo)
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