Traditional rulers drive grassroots stability in Ondo – Takuro

By Precious Oluwole

Ondo State’s traditional rulers remain vital partners in ensuring peace and stability at the grassroots, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, has said.

In an exclusive interview, Takuro highlighted the crucial role of monarchs in supporting Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s administration to reduce communal tensions across the state.

He explained that sustained dialogue with traditional institutions, respect for their authority and prompt government intervention in disputes have strengthened relationships between monarchs and local councils, fostering a more harmonious environment for development.

“Since Governor Aiyedatiwa assumed office, local government administration has seen a remarkable transformation under the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. The Governor believes that the impact of government is most felt at the grassroots level, which is why funds allocated to local governments are spent locally under strict supervision,” Takuro said.

The Commissioner noted that the Governor has prioritised capacity building for all local government officers to ensure efficient service delivery.

“By equipping both the political leadership and bureaucrats, they can work together effectively to ensure that communities experience tangible benefits from government initiatives,” he added.

He further outlined the administration’s focus on rural infrastructure, revealing that the government monitors the kilometres of rural roads maintained or constructed in each local government annually.

“Every community must have road access. This encourages rural stability, prevents mass migration to urban centres and safeguards food security. Rural areas feed urban populations and if farmers abandon their land due to poor roads or lack of amenities, the entire state suffers,” he said.

Takuro also highlighted the Governor’s ambition for Ondo to become a food basket for the South-West, stressing that every initiative, project and social welfare programme is designed with grassroots communities in mind.

He emphasised that bureaucrats now actively engage with communities to confirm that positive change is achieved, noting that the past year has been marked by relative peace among traditional institutions.

“Traditional rulers are the voice of government in their communities. Their authority cannot be undermined. When disputes arise, we summon all parties for dialogue, offering honest guidance and solutions,” he said.

On government support for traditional rulers, Takuro revealed that new vehicles have been provided to enhance their mobility and security.

“These leaders often set aside personal business to serve their communities. The Governor ensured they do not bear the burden alone. Today, nearly all our traditional rulers are equipped with brand-new Toyota SUVs. The initiative is fully supported by all 18 local government chairmen,” he explained.

The Commissioner also stressed the importance of project supervision. “Our ministry, in collaboration with the Office of the Director of Public Procurement and the Bureau of Public Procurement, supervises every project.

This ensures compliance, prevents sabotage and guarantees that all interventions meet genuine community needs. Self-serving projects are not tolerated,” he said.

Looking back at the first year of the administration, Takuro said significant investment went into administrative capacity, including vehicles for traditional rulers, political officers, union leaders, and bureaucrats.

“By the second year, the focus will shift to developmental projects that directly benefit the people. There is a visible new beginning in local government administration and we are committed to building on last year’s achievements,” he added.

He urged residents to continue supporting and praying for the government of Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, stressing that ongoing collaboration between the state government and traditional institutions is key to sustained peace and progress.