Makinde, Ajadi, and PDP Stalwarts Celebrate Former Oyo Speaker Sunmonu at 67
The historic city of Oyo was filled with political dignitaries, traditional rulers, and party faithful on Thursday as Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship aspirant Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, and other top stakeholders gathered to honor former Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Monsurat Sunmonu, on her 67th birthday. The well-attended event, held at Abiodun Atiba Area in Kosobo, Oyo town, drew prominent figures from political, religious, and traditional institutions, underscoring the celebrant's enduring influence in Oyo State politics.
Ajadi Praises Sunmonu as Unifying Figure
Speaking with journalists after the ceremony, Ajadi described Senator Sunmonu as a unifying figure whose motherly role within the PDP and across Oyo State has continued to attract admiration from all sides. "Senator Monsurat Sunmonu has played a motherly role, not just within our party but throughout Oyo State. That is why you see Muslims, Christians, party members, and leaders all gathered here in her hometown to celebrate her," Ajadi said.
Ajadi also highlighted the presence of Governor Seyi Makinde, noting that his attendance reflected the deep respect Sunmonu commands within the PDP hierarchy. "Our leader, Governor Seyi Makinde, flew in from Abuja this morning to Ibadan and came down to Oyo just to celebrate our mother. That tells you how loyal, patriotic, and respected she is within the PDP and in Oyo State," he added.
Sunmonu Reaffirms Loyalty to Makinde
In her remarks, Senator Sunmonu expressed gratitude to guests and reaffirmed her unwavering support for Governor Makinde's leadership. "Wherever Governor Seyi Makinde is going is where we are all going in Oyo State," she declared, drawing applause from the gathering. She also offered prayers for the governor, asking God to grant him success in all his endeavors.
Addressing the traditional rulers present, Sunmonu acknowledged the role of the state government in the installation of monarchs. "All Kabiyesi and chiefs here today should appreciate the governor. The power to crown kings rests with the state government, and without that authority, many of our revered monarchs would not be on the throne today," she said.
Makinde Recalls Sunmonu's Uncommon Loyalty
Governor Makinde, while delivering his remarks, paid glowing tribute to the former senator, repeatedly referring to her as his "most distinguished sister." He recounted a defining moment in their political journey, revealing how Sunmonu demonstrated uncommon loyalty during the 2019 elections.
"When she was contesting for Senate in 2019 and I was contesting for governor, she lost her election. But just two weeks after, she left Abuja—still on medical drip—to campaign for me in Oyo State. That is the kind of person she is. She is truthful and sincere," Makinde said.
The governor noted that Sunmonu's contributions to his victory remain unforgettable, describing her as a leader whose commitment to truth and service stands her apart. "Anyone who wants to hear the truth should go to Senator Sunmonu. She will tell you as it is," he added.
"Betrayal and loyalty are like two sides of a coin. But if that coin is tossed a hundred times to determine who Senator Sunmonu truly is, the side of loyalty will appear repeatedly. Anyone who seeks truth and loyalty will find it in her," he said.
Trailblazing Achievements Highlighted
Makinde also highlighted her trailblazing achievements, noting that she remains the first female Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly and one of the most prominent female political figures the state has produced. "Up till today, Oyo State has not produced another female Speaker. That tells you the kind of history she made," he said.
Recounting his journey to the event, the governor emphasized the importance he attached to the occasion. "We left Abuja around 11 a.m., got to Ibadan shortly after noon, and came straight to Oyo. Even if I were coming from London, I would still come directly to celebrate my most distinguished sister," he said.
Dignitaries and Royal Presence
The event also featured the presence of key PDP leaders, including the party's National Secretary, Taofeek Arapaja, alongside a host of traditional rulers. Governor Makinde specifically acknowledged the Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Olushola Alao, describing him as a revered monarch whose presence added colour and cultural significance to the celebration.
A Legacy Celebrated
Observers at the event described the gathering as more than a birthday celebration, noting that it served as a testament to Senator Sunmonu's enduring legacy of service, loyalty, and bridge-building in Oyo State politics. From her days representing Oyo East and Oyo West constituencies to her historic emergence as the first female Speaker in 2011 and later as a senator, Sunmonu's political journey has remained a source of inspiration, particularly for women in leadership.
As tributes continue to pour in, Thursday's celebration reinforced her reputation as a stateswoman whose influence transcends party lines—one whose legacy continues to shape the political landscape of Oyo State.
