Traditional rulers in Akure South Local Government Area on Friday received a major boost to their roles as custodians of peace and culture, following the presentation of brand-new vehicles by the local government chairman, Hon. Gbenga Fasua.
The event, held at the council secretariat, marked an unprecedented moment in grassroots governance in Ondo State.
The beneficiaries included the Iralepo of Isinkan, Oba Oluwagbemiga Ajimokunola Olofin-Adimula (Arulewolasi III), the Osolo of Isolo, Oba Dr. Edward Kolawole Adewole; the Akanpinsa of Ipinsa, Oba Dr. Omoniyi Olufunmilayo JP; the Olu of Ijoka Land, Oba Anthony Oluwalade; the Ado of Adofure, HRM Oba Akin Atere; and the Elekun of Ilekun, HRM Benjamin Olufemi.
Presenting the vehicles, Hon. Fasua said the gesture was aimed at enhancing the mobility, efficiency, and overall productivity of the monarchs in safeguarding peace and maintaining order within their respective domains.
He thanked the Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Ayedatiwa, for his continuous support for traditional institutions.
“This presentation is to strengthen the capacity of our Royal Fathers in carrying out their responsibilities. Their roles in maintaining peace and supporting community development cannot be overstated.
We deeply appreciate the Governor for making this possible,” Fasua said.
The chairman also unveiled a brand-new bus for the Akure South Legislative Council, noting that it had been fully paid for by the local government.
In his remarks, the Iralepo of Isinkan, Oba Oluwagbemiga Ajimokunola Olofin-Adimula, who spoke on behalf of all beneficiaries, expressed profound gratitude to Governor Ayedatiwa and the council chairman.
He described the gesture as a clear affirmation of the government’s respect for traditional institutions.
He praised the Governor for being responsive and for recently approving a salary increment for monarchs in the state.
“This is a demonstration of leadership that listens and responds. We are grateful, and we pray for continued success of this administration,” he added.
Political leaders at the event described the gesture as historic. Hon. Tony Ala and Hon. Sunday Faleye both noted that it was the first time in Ondo State that a local government administration would officially present vehicles to monarchs across all classes.
They commended the Governor’s ongoing infrastructural transformation in Akure, citing the Oda Road dualisation, NEPA Roundabout reconstruction, and the recent flag-off of the Akure–Imafon Road as clear evidence of a government committed to development.
The Secretary to the Local Government, Hon. Mrs. Adeola Rosemary Finchy, in her closing address, appreciated all stakeholders for supporting the initiative, which she described as a milestone for the council.
The ceremony was witnessed by councillors, senior government officials, political associates, cultural groups, APC leaders, women leaders, and religious representatives.
