Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has officially named a new Government Reserved Area (GRA) in Samonda, Ibadan, after the late House of Representatives member for Ibadan North Federal Constituency, Prince Olaide Akinremi, popularly known as “Jagaban.”
The unveiling of the Prince Olaide Akinremi Jagaban GRA, located along Dominion University Road, was conducted by the Deputy Governor, Barr. Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal, who represented the governor at the ceremony. The late Akinremi, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), served from 2019 until his death on July 10, 2024.
Governor Makinde, in his remarks delivered by Lawal, said the decision to immortalise Akinremi transcended political differences, stressing that it was in recognition of his notable achievements and contributions to Ibadan North and Oyo State at large.
“This is not about politics. Jagaban was a gem in Ibadanland, and we wanted to do something that would endure beyond material tributes,” Makinde said. “This estate will be developed to the highest standards, with all infrastructure and amenities in place.”
The governor also assured that the ongoing reconstruction of the UI–Samonda–Sango/Poly Road would be completed soon to provide easier access to the estate.
Ibadan North Local Government Chairman, Hon. Oluseun Olufade, praised the gesture, describing it as a lesson for political leaders on honouring worthy contributions to society.
Also speaking, Ekefa Olubadan and APC stalwart, High Chief Akinade Fijabi, commended Makinde for running an inclusive government, urging residents to preserve Akinremi’s legacy by voting in the upcoming by-election for his vacant House of Representatives seat on August 16.
Representing the Akinremi family, Alhaji Abideen Akinremi expressed deep appreciation for the governor’s support since the lawmaker’s passing, while tributes from Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Toyin Balogun, and Mr. Michael Adegbuyi of the Akinremi Legacy Forum lauded the governor’s initiative.
The contractor, Messrs Gazzle Nigeria Limited, represented by Mr. Tomiwa Bickersteth, described the project as a fitting memorial for the late lawmaker.
The event drew an impressive array of dignitaries, including former Oyo Deputy Governor Barr. Hazeem Gbolarumi, Hon. Anthony Adepoju (Ibarapa Central/Ibarapa North), Hon. Comforter Olajide and Hon. Gabriel Babajide (Ibadan North I & II), Deputy Chief of Staff Hon. Kazeem Adeniyi, several state commissioners, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and members of the Akinremi Legacy Forum.
With the completion of the estate, the Oyo State Government says it hopes the name Jagaban will remain etched in Ibadan’s history as a symbol of service and unity beyond political lines.
