Ondo State Governor, His Excellency, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has called on traditional rulers to intensify their efforts toward sustaining peace, security, and progress across their domains.
He made this appeal on Tuesday at the International Centre for Culture and Events (The Dome), Akure, during the formal inauguration of Oba (Dr.) Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, the Olowo of Owo, as Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Obas.
Governor Aiyedatiwa described traditional rulers as “the first line of leadership at the grassroots level” and pledged that his administration would continue to honor and elevate their role as custodians of culture and community values.
He noted that the council’s composition, derived from Chapter V, Section 33 of the Chiefs Law of Ondo State 1984, as amended, empowers it to advise the state on cultural affairs, local traditions, chieftaincy matters, inter-communal relations, and public order.
The governor also acknowledged the contributions of the outgoing council under the leadership of the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, appreciating their commitment to harmony and growth.
Congratulating the new chairman and council members, Aiyedatiwa charged them to offer sound, unbiased guidance that would help the government navigate issues around security, youth development, and social cohesion.
He assured them: “Your collective wisdom and wealth of experience will go a long way in shaping policies that foster communal peace and advancement. My administration will never waver in its support for you, and we will continue to give traditional institutions their due respect.”
The governor further assured the monarchs of his full commitment to delivering his “OUR EASE” seven-point agenda, which he called a blueprint for sustainable progress across Ondo State.
In his acceptance remarks, Oba Ogunoye thanked Governor Aiyedatiwa for the confidence placed in him, promising to lead the council with fairness and integrity. He equally urged his fellow monarchs to embrace unity and teamwork in supporting the state’s aspirations for stability and economic prosperity.
The occasion also featured goodwill messages from prominent figures, including Comrade Bola Taiwo, Special Adviser to the Governor on Union Matters and Special Duties, who praised the governor’s transparent process in appointing traditional rulers.
In his vote of thanks, the Ajana Afa of Okeagbe, Oba Mofolorunso Samuel Adegboyega Arasanyin, expressed appreciation on behalf of all traditional rulers, reaffirming their resolve to work closely with the government.
The well-attended ceremony brought together the Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami; Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji; Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; APC State Chairman, Engr. Ade Adetimehin; along with commissioners, legislators, local council chairmen, political leaders, religious figures, and other dignitaries.
