Olowo Champions 5,000 Trees Planting Initiative Against Rainstorm
The Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, has launched an ambitious plan to plant over 5,000 trees across Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The initiative forms part of the events marking the fifth anniversary of his coronation.
Under the project, every household in Owo will be given a tree to plant, with arrangements in place to ensure their proper care and growth.
At a press briefing, the Chairman of the Anniversary Planning Committee, Dr. Bode Ayorinde, said the tree-planting drive is aimed at addressing the recurring destruction of properties by rainstorms in the area.
“The Olowo was moved to champion this campaign due to the repeated damage caused by rainstorms in Owo.
This project will help mitigate such occurrences while enhancing the environment,” Dr. Ayorinde remarked.
In addition to the tree-planting initiative, the committee disclosed plans to raise N1 billion for various developmental projects.
These include constructing a five-kilometre perimeter fence for the Olowo’s palace, building a new residence for the monarch, and establishing a modern reception hall.
Dr. Ayorinde highlighted the importance of the perimeter fence, noting that it would safeguard the palace from encroachment while preserving its status as the largest palace in Africa.
He further appealed to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to consider upgrading Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, to a University of Technology, in line with the vision of the late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.
On security, Dr. Ayorinde assured residents that measures have been implemented to prevent a recurrence of the tragic June 5, 2022, terrorist attack on a Catholic Church in Owo, which claimed numerous lives.
“Security remains a priority due to our proximity to Kogi and Edo States.
However, with the presence of local vigilantes and military checkpoints, I can assure you that such an incident will never happen again,” he said.
Dr. Ayorinde expressed confidence in the success of the fundraising drive to execute the proposed projects while managing disputes with those who have encroached on palace lands.
“We will preserve what remains and ensure the palace retains its status as the largest in Africa,” he concluded.
CREDIT: The Hope Newspaper
