The Senate Leader, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, has been honoured with the chieftaincy title of Olu Omo of Iyin Kingdom in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the development of his hometown, Iyin-Ekiti, and Ekiti State as a whole.
The conferment took place on Saturday during the 2025 Iyin Day Celebration at the Oluyin’s Palace in Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area of Ekiti State. The event also marked three major milestones — the annual Iyin Day, the 75th anniversary of the unification of Iyin Kingdom, and the fifth coronation anniversary of the Oluyin of Iyin Kingdom, Oba Adeola Ajakaye.
In his acceptance speech, Senator Bamidele expressed gratitude for the honour and reaffirmed his dedication to fostering development across Ekiti Central Senatorial District. He announced that 20 percent of all funds raised during the Iyin Day celebration would be distributed among the remaining 36 towns within his district to ensure equitable growth and inclusiveness.
The Senate Leader also donated a coaster bus to the Oluyin-in-Council, describing the gesture as part of his broader vision for community empowerment. He emphasised the need for unity and shared progress, stating, “No town should be left behind in the quest for development and prosperity.”
The Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, who attended the ceremony alongside other lawmakers and traditional rulers, praised Bamidele’s leadership and impact. He described him as “the pillar and engine room of the Senate,” applauding his dedication to both his people and the Nigerian nation.
“This man, your son, is the pillar of the Senate. Whatever he does, he thinks first of Ekiti, then of Nigeria,” Jibrin said, pledging his support for the proposed Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences, which Senator Bamidele is facilitating for Iyin-Ekiti.
The celebration drew dignitaries from across the country, reflecting the wide respect and admiration the Senate Leader commands for his consistent contributions to governance and grassroots development.
