The Coronation ceremony of the 21st Soun of Ogbomosoland of Oyo State, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, on Thursday, began with N150 million empowerment programme to 102 beneficiaries at the palace in Ogbomoso.
The Monarch will be officially presented with Staff of Office by the State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on Tuesday, December 19, 2023.
The beneficiaries were drawn from the five Local Governments made up of Ogbomosoland, namely Ogo-Oluwa, Surulere, Ogbomoso North, Ogbomoso South, and Oriire, respectively.
Items presented to the beneficiaries include sewing machines, industrial sewing machines, deep freezers, motorcycles, generators, and hair dryers.
The empowerment is part of a seven-day activity lined up for the coronation of Oba Olaoye.
In his speech, Oba Olaoye said, “My vision is comprehensive development of Ogbomosoland. We shall collaborate with non-governmental organisations for more development. We are giving 102 beneficiaries business tools now. This is a business tool, not a gift.
“Whoever sells this business tool would be arrested, and handed over to the police for prosecution.”