Chairman Council of Obas: Deji of Akure Out, Olowo of Owo In
The Ondo State Government has taken significant steps in implementing the recommendations of the Hon. Justice C.E.T. Ajama Judicial Commission of Inquiry on Chieftaincy Matters, leading to key reforms in the state’s traditional leadership structure.
Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa announced these developments on Thursday during a special meeting of the Ondo State Council of Traditional Rulers at the Obas’ Secretariat in Akure.
The governor highlighted the progress made in addressing long-standing chieftaincy disputes through the diligent execution of the White Paper issued on the Ajama Panel’s report.
Among the major reforms, the governor emphasized the abolition of the Grade ‘D’ category of Obas in the state, a move that automatically elevated all monarchs in that class to Grade ‘C.’ According to him, this restructuring ensures fairness and enhances the status of traditional rulers across Ondo State.
“We made significant progress in addressing chieftaincy matters through the implementation of the Ondo State White Paper on the Hon. Justice C.E.T. Ajama Judicial Commission of Inquiry. This included the elevation of many existing stools and the upgrading or recognition of some minor chieftaincies,” Governor Aiyedatiwa stated.
Another key milestone was the execution of the 5% statutory allocation of local government funds to traditional rulers, reinforcing the government’s commitment to empowering the traditional institution.
The governor noted that this decision underscores the administration’s belief in the crucial role traditional rulers play in governance and local administration.
Additionally, Governor Aiyedatiwa celebrated the completion of the Ondo State Council of Obas’ Secretariat, a long-standing project that now provides a befitting administrative hub for the state’s royal fathers.
During the meeting, the governor also announced the dissolution of the 11th Council of Obas and the formation of the 12th Council, appointing the Olowo of Owo, Oba (Dr.) Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye II, as the new chairman.
He commended the outgoing chairman, the Deji of Akure, Oba (Dr.) Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi Odundun II, for his leadership and support for the administration’s reforms.
The Deji of Akure, in his remarks, expressed appreciation for the government’s unprecedented commitment to traditional institutions, urging continued support for the new leadership of the council.
Similarly, the new chairman, the Olowo of Owo, pledged to build on the productive relationship between the government and the council.
