By David Akinadewo-Adekahunsi
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Tuesday inaugurated the Olowo of Owo, Oba (Dr) Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, as Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Obas, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to the traditional institution as a vital partner in governance and grassroots development.
The inauguration ceremony, held at the International Centre for Culture and Events (The Dome), Akure, was attended by a host of royal fathers, political leaders, and stakeholders from across the state.
While addressing the gathering, Governor Aiyedatiwa described the traditional institution as the bedrock of communal life and a reliable ally in the quest for sustainable peace and progress.
He stated that the Council, established under Chapter V, Section 33 of the Chiefs Law of Ondo State 1984 (as amended), plays a key advisory role in matters relating to chieftaincy affairs, customary law, culture, communal harmony, and public order.
He noted that the newly inaugurated Council is the 12th since the state’s creation in 1976, consisting of all first-class monarchs in the state, and inclusive of provisional representation for local governments without a first-class Oba.
The Governor expressed appreciation to the immediate past Council, led by the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, for its efforts in promoting peace and cultural preservation.
He congratulated Oba Ogunoye and other members of the Council, urging them to offer visionary leadership and serve as objective counsellors to government on key issues such as security, youth engagement, grassroots development, and the sustenance of communal harmony.
He assured the monarchs that his administration would continue to prioritise their welfare and preserve the dignity of their offices.
Governor Aiyedatiwa also used the occasion to reaffirm his dedication to the “OUR EASE” seven-point development agenda, noting that traditional rulers have a central role to play in its successful implementation.
He announced that an interactive session would follow the inauguration, giving royal fathers an open platform to present their views and suggestions on matters affecting their domains and the state at large.
Responding on behalf of the newly inaugurated Council, Oba Ogunoye thanked the Governor for the confidence placed in him and pledged to lead with integrity, fairness, and loyalty to the cause of the traditional institution.
He reiterated the Council’s support for the government’s development efforts and called on fellow monarchs to uphold peace and the values handed down by their forebears.
Earlier, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Union Matters and Special Duties, Comrade Bola Taiwo, lauded the Governor’s consistent respect for traditional institutions, particularly his non-interference in chieftaincy matters and the prompt approval of Obaship appointments.
Delivering the vote of thanks, the Ajana Afa of Okeagbe, Oba Mofolorunso Samuel Adegboyega Arasanyin, expressed deep appreciation on behalf of the Council, commending the administration’s inclusive leadership and commitment to cultural preservation.
Dignitaries at the event included 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, State APC Chairman; Engr Ade Adetimehin, members of the State Executive Council, lawmakers, council chairmen, religious leaders, and political appointees.
