By Precious Oluwole

Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has inaugurated the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye as the new Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Obas.

The governor, during the swearing-in ceremony held in Akure on Tuesday, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage and strengthening traditional institutions as vital partners in governance and grassroots development.

He noted that the State Council of Obas has come a long way, with constitutionally allotted roles and responsibilities in the governance of the State which no government can afford to underestimate.

He stressed that The Council being inaugurated is the 12th since the creation of Ondo State in 1976, adding that the Council comprises the Chairman and all first class Obas in Ondo State, while any Local Government without a First Class Oba would be represented in the Council by two temporary members selected by the members.

The Governor appreciated the members of the immediate past Council under the leadership of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi Odundun, the Deji of Akure land for their dedication, hard work and invaluable service to the State. “Your contributions to the peace, security and preservation of our culture during your tenure are deeply acknowledged and appreciated. We are very grateful for your sacrifices, commitment and selfless service to our State”.

He congratulated the Chairman of the new Council, His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Dr) Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye, the Olowo of Owo and other royal members of the Council on their well-deserved appointment. “Let me remind Your majesties that your appointment is a call to higher service, and I have no doubt that your tenure will usher in renewed vigor and direction to the Council. Your pedigrees and proven commitments to the welfare of your people stand you all in good stead for this critical role”, he said.

“The institution of traditional rulership remains the bedrock of our society. You are the custodians of our rich cultural heritage, the preservers of our values and the closest link between the government and the grassroots. Your roles as peacemakers, arbiters, community developers and moral compasses are indispensable in fostering a stable and progressive society.

“As you assume your new responsibilities for the next two years, I urge the newly inaugurated Chairman and other members of the Council of Obas to provide visionary leadership. I expect a Council that will continue to offer government, wise and unbiased advice on matters of culture, security, community developments and inter-communal relations. Your collective wisdom is an invaluable asset that we must leverage for the advancement of our dear State.

“Our administration is fully committed to supporting our traditional institutions and advancing their cause. We will continue to hold our traditional rulers in high esteem and partner you to ensure a safe, peaceful and prosperous Ondo State. We believe that a strong traditional institution is vital for sustainable development at the grassroots.

“We will continue to engage with you regularly, listening to your concerns, tapping into your insights and collaborating on initiatives that will benefit our people. Your welfare and the dignity of your exalted offices will always be a priority for this government”.

Earlier in his address, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Union matters and Special duties, Comrade Bola Taiwo congratulated the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye as he assumes the position of the Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Obas for a tenure of two years. He also congratulated all members of the Council of Obas, praying that their tenure as members of the State Council of Obas will usher in unity, harmony and progress for the Council and the entire State.

He emphasized that Governor Aiyedatiwa has always demonstrated his passion and respect for the traditional institution which the Kabiyesis represent. He added that his approval for the occasion is a demonstration of Mr. Governor’s love and admiration for the Traditional institution in the State.

He enjoined the traditional rulers to maximize this opportunity to rob minds with the Governor on issues that can bring and entrench peace in the State as well as promote mutual relationship between the Government and the Obas.

He appreciated the Governor for the usual prompt appointments and installations of Obas in communities with vacant stools.

“It is worth mentioning that all the selections, appointment and installation of the enthroned Obas were without Government interference or influence. The Ministry and the respective Local Government have been given free hand to coordinate and moderate all the processes that have culminated in the final approval of the State Executive Council for all the reports on the successful selection exercises”.

Reacting, the newly inaugurated Chairman, Ondo State Council of Obas, Dr Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye appreciated Governor Aiyedatiwa for finding him worthy to be appointed as the Chairman, Ondo State Council of Obas, stressing that his leadership has been so ountanding, meticulously directing the State.

He assured that the traditional institution of Ondo State will be in unity, continuously supporting Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration, promising to do more on what his predecessor has achieved.

In attendance were; The Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, Speaker, Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, State Chairman of APC, Engr Ade Adetimehin, Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa, members of the State Executive Council, Traditional rulers, members of Ondo State House of Assembly, Director General, OSRC Media group, Mr Kenneth Steven – Odusola, local government Chairmen, religious leaders, political appointees, among others.