The Ondo State Government has ordered that all communities in the state must have formal Chieftaincy Declarations documented to curb recurring disputes over royal succession.
This directive, aimed at preventing the frequent crises that arise during the selection and installation of traditional rulers, was disclosed by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, during a public hearing on Monday in Akure.
Takuro explained that the absence of written chieftaincy declarations has often led to conflicts in various communities.
“In communities where there is no chieftaincy declaration, we usually face serious problems,” he said. “Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has now mandated that every community must have a properly documented and widely accepted chieftaincy declaration to ensure smooth succession to royal stools.”
He noted that such declarations must reflect the customs and traditions of the people and be agreed upon by relevant community stakeholders before being submitted for government approval.
“The declaration outlines the traditional laws and practices for appointing an Oba. It must be a product of consensus based on cultural heritage and historical truths,” he said. “The composition of kingmakers will also be decided by the community, provided it receives popular approval.”
Takuro praised Governor Aiyedatiwa for taking this bold step to safeguard traditional institutions and ensure harmony at the grassroots.
Also speaking at the hearing, the Zaki of Arigidi-Akoko, Oba Yisa Olanipekun, applauded the initiative, describing it as a key move to foster peace across the state.
“In the past, succession processes were informal and lacked documentation. That led to many disputes, as everyone wanted to become a monarch,” he said. “But this approach will bring structure, clarity, and order to the process, ensuring everyone knows their rightful place.”
