In a heartfelt tribute to the enduring legacy of the late former Governor of Oyo State, Otunba Dr. Christopher Adebayo Alao-Akala, the Alao-Akala family, in collaboration with the royal palace of Ogbomosoland, on Tuesday laid the foundation for the Alao-Akala Primary Health Care Centre in Yaku, Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
The groundbreaking ceremony, which took place beside the Big Abass Mosque in Yaku, marked the 75th posthumous birthday of the late political icon, fondly remembered for his grassroots leadership and commitment to community development. The project is part of the 25-Year Developmental Plan of Ogbomosoland championed by His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye Orumogege III, the Soun of Ogbomosoland.
Speaking at the event, Oba Olaoye described the late Alao-Akala as “a giant, a patriot, and a legend” who led with “heart, vision, and unmatched dedication.” Although the monarch and the late governor never met, Oba Olaoye emphasized his admiration for Alao-Akala’s legacy, particularly in the healthcare sector.
“This isn’t just a remembrance; it’s a celebration of purpose. Ogbomosoland remembers a man who carried this land in his heart and on his shoulders. Today, his name continues to inspire progress,” the monarch declared.
The health centre project is being executed under the leadership of the Professor O.A. Ladipo-chaired Health and Medical Committee and forms a critical part of the strategic infrastructure drive envisioned for Ogbomosoland.
Hon. Olamijuwonlo Alao-Akala, son of the late governor and current member representing Ogbomoso North/Ogbomoso South/Oriire Federal Constituency at the National Assembly, expressed the family’s gratitude for the initiative. He acknowledged the vision of Oba Olaoye and the support of close associates and political leaders, including Senator Fatai Buhari, who represents Oyo North Senatorial District.
“We are deeply honored and grateful to our visionary and transformational King, Oba Ghandi Orumogege III, for honoring us with his esteemed presence and for laying the foundation of this crucial project,” Hon. Alao-Akala stated.
Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, in a speech delivered by Dr. Amao, applauded both the Alao-Akala family and the monarch for their unwavering dedication to the growth of Ogbomosoland. He recalled the late governor’s numerous contributions to healthcare, including the renovation of Adeoyo State Hospital in 2008 and the establishment groundwork for LAUTECH Teaching Hospital.
“The support given to the construction of this new PHC is a continuation of what Otunba Adebayo Alao-Akala would have done, in or out of government,” Oyelade remarked, while also acknowledging Governor Seyi Makinde for completing many of Alao-Akala’s health-related projects and initiating the construction of 212 out of 351 targeted Primary Health Centres across the state.
The land for the new health centre was generously donated by the Yaku royal family, a gesture that the Soun of Ogbomosoland described as “a gift to future generations.” High Chief Sunday Oyeniyi Ojewumi, the Oniyaku of Yaku, was specially recognized for his role in facilitating the project.
The event witnessed the attendance of dignitaries, traditional rulers, political associates, friends, and family members of the late governor, including HRM Oba Thompson Oyetunji Adeyeye, the Alajaawa of Ajaawa, and the widows and children of the deceased statesman.
As construction begins on the Alao-Akala Primary Health Centre, it stands as a symbol of enduring legacy, visionary leadership, and a renewed commitment to quality healthcare delivery in Ogbomosoland.
