Makinde, Ajadi, PDP Leaders Honour Ex-Oyo Speaker Sunmonu at 67

Political leaders, traditional rulers, and supporters gathered in Oyo town on Thursday to celebrate former Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Monsurat Sunmonu, as she marked her 67th birthday.

Among those in attendance were Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship aspirant, Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, alongside other party stalwarts and dignitaries from across the state.

The event, held at Abiodun Atiba Area in Kosobo, attracted a diverse crowd, reflecting Sunmonu’s strong influence in Oyo’s political and social landscape.

Speaking after the ceremony, Ajadi described Sunmonu as a unifying figure who commands respect across religious and political divides. He noted that her “motherly role” within the PDP and the state continues to draw admiration from different groups.

He also highlighted Governor Makinde’s presence, saying it underscored the high regard Sunmonu enjoys within the party. According to him, the governor’s trip from Abuja to attend the celebration demonstrated her loyalty and importance in Oyo politics.

In her remarks, Sunmonu thanked guests for celebrating with her and reaffirmed her support for Governor Makinde, pledging continued alignment with his leadership. She also prayed for his success and urged traditional rulers to appreciate the role of the state government in their installation.

Governor Makinde, in his tribute, praised Sunmonu’s loyalty and sincerity, recalling her support during the 2019 elections. He recounted how she continued to campaign for him shortly after losing her senatorial bid, describing the gesture as a mark of uncommon commitment.

He further commended her honesty and dedication to public service, noting that she remains a trusted voice within the political space. Makinde also highlighted her historic achievement as the first female Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, describing her as a trailblazer for women in leadership.

The governor stressed the importance he attached to the event, stating that he made deliberate efforts to attend despite his schedule.

Other dignitaries present included PDP National Secretary, Taofeek Arapaja, and several traditional rulers, among them the Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Olushola Alao.

Observers described the gathering as more than a birthday celebration, noting that it reflected Sunmonu’s enduring legacy of service, loyalty, and leadership in Oyo State. Her political journey, from representing Oyo constituencies to becoming Speaker in 2011 and later a senator, was widely praised as an inspiration, especially for women in politics.