*“I Have a Long List of Political Aspirants for Chieftaincy Titles So They Can Serve Our Community,” Ibarapakan Sparks Laughter in Igangan*

Member representing Ibarapa Central and Ibarapa North Federal Constituency, Hon. Dr. Anthony Adebayo Adepoju, has graced the launch of the N5 billion Asigangan Ultra-Modern Palace and the conferment of chieftaincy titles, organised by the Asigangan of Igangan Land, HRM Oba Rafiu Olaniyi Adeniyi Ariwoola.

The event, which was held on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at AUD School 1 Playing Ground, Igangan, was attended by dignitaries from across the state.

Speaking at the event, Hon. Adepoju congratulated the sons and daughters of Igangan community. He also expressed his gratitude to the Executive Governor of Oyo State, His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde, for his service to the people of the state.

The lawmaker thanked Igangan community for their support throughout his legislative journey so far. He stated that the reconstruction of the Igangan Ultra-Modern Town Hall, being undertaken by him, would be completed and commissioned in grand style very soon. The Ibarapa-born politician cum technocrat expressed hope that the Executive Governor of Oyo State would be present at the ceremony.

In a humorous reaction to the growing number of chieftaincy title offers for political aspirants in the constituency, Hon. Adepoju seized the moment to clarify his stance, noting that his own “offer” is his current political position, not a chieftaincy title.

In his words: “My father, the Asigangan of Igangan Land, I congratulate you on today’s occasion. However, there is something significant I need to say. I can see that many aspiring politicians in our constituency have been lined up for different chieftaincy titles today, but I want to make it clear that I am not in competition with anyone for any of these titles. I am seriously rooting for them but I want to use this opportunity to also inform them that no one should compete with me for my position, as everyone will serve in different capacities in the interest of our community. Mi ò bá ẹnikẹ́ni du oyè, kí ẹnikẹ́ni má bà mí du ipo tèmi.

“Kabiyesi, sir, I would also like to remind you that I have a long list of individuals from Ibarapa Central who are deserving of chieftaincy titles. I understand that my brother and friend, Chief Olusegun Okanlawon, was conferred with a chieftaincy title a couple of weeks ago in Idere and is being honoured with another one today. Barr. Ope Tijani is also receiving a chieftaincy title here today. These are people I love so much and I congratulate them. However, I want to point out that even in this gathering, there are individuals like Hon. Francis Tunji Omolewu and others who are equally deserving of such chieftaincy titles and they are listening to me as I speak.

“Receiving a chieftaincy title is a call to serve our community, as we all serve in different capacities. However, the only title I seek at this moment is the position I currently occupy and I implore others not to contend with me over it,” he remarked amid laughter from the large audience.

Amid cheers and applause from his supporters, the lawmaker donated the sum of one million naira (N1 million) towards the construction of the new Asigangan Palace on behalf of his family, Ibarapa Central and Ibarapa North Federal Constituency and his political family.

Members of his entourage at the event included Hon. Bisi Akande, the Executive Vice Chairman of Ibarapa North, Hon. Remi Ayoade, Hon. Tokunbo Adewale Toriola, Hon. Adeniran Adepoju, Hon. Lawrence Adepoju, party leaders, political functionaries from the two local government areas, supporters; among others.

Hassan Adesodi Olaoniye
Special Adviser to Hon. Adebayo Adepoju
(Media and Publicity)
April 11, 2026