Former First Lady of Oyo State Florence Ajimobi has thanked Governor Seyi Makinde for honouring her late husband, Abiola Ajimobi, at the grand finale of activities marking the 50th anniversary of the creation of Oyo State.
Mrs Ajimobi shared pictures from the event on her Instagram page on Wednesday, showing her son, Idris Abiola-Ajimobi, receiving the award on behalf of the family from the governor.
She said her son attended the ceremony at the invitation of Governor Makinde and represented the family of the former governor at the event.
“At the grand finale of Oyo State @50, my son had the honour of attending at the invitation of His Excellency, the governor, representing the family of my late husband, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, former governor of Oyo State,” she said.
Ajimobi said the award was presented in recognition of her husband’s service to the state during his time in public office.
She said the late former governor devoted over 12 years to the administration of Oyo State and contributed to its governance and development.
“During the event, an award was received in recognition of the service and contributions of the late Governor Ajimobi, who served the state for over 12 years and played a role in its administration,” she said.
Florence Ajimobi also expressed appreciation to Makinde for recognising her husband’s record in office.
“I sincerely appreciate His Excellency for his statesmanship and for honouring the legacy, works and leadership of my husband, Senator Abiola Ajimobi,” she said.
The grand finale was part of a week-long programme organised by the Oyo State government to mark 50 years since the creation of the state.
The event drew political leaders, traditional rulers and other dignitaries from within and outside the state.
Those present included the Olubadan of Ibadan Oba Rashidi Ladoja and the Ooni of Ife Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi.
The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, was absent from the activities.
Oyo State was created on February 3, 1976, during the military administration of General Murtala Muhammed.
Activities marking the anniversary began with an opening ceremony at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan.
This was followed by a cultural carnival from Mapo Hall to the Lekan Salami Sports Complex.
The celebrations also featured a gala and award night held at the Government House, Agodi, Ibadan.
