Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Tuesday inaugurated Oba (Dr) Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, the Olowo of Owo, as the new Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Obas.
Speaking at the ceremony held at the International Centre for Culture and Events (The Dome) in Akure, Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed his administration’s firm commitment to the promotion and protection of the traditional institution, which he described as the bedrock of society and a crucial partner in driving sustainable development.
The governor underscored the constitutional relevance of the Council of Obas, citing its establishment under Chapter V, Section 33 of the Chiefs Law of Ondo State, 1984, as amended.
He noted that the council holds key advisory responsibilities on matters of customary law, culture, inter-communal relations, chieftaincy affairs, public order, and broader policy issues affecting the traditional institution.
Governor Aiyedatiwa explained that the newly inaugurated body marks the 12th Council of Obas since the creation of Ondo State in 1976.
The council comprises a chairman and all first-class Obas, with interim representation for local government areas without a first-class monarch.
The governor commended the immediate past council, led by the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, for their contributions to peace, security, and cultural preservation across the state.
Congratulating Oba Ogunoye on his appointment, Aiyedatiwa described the role as a call to higher service and expressed confidence in the new chairman’s ability to lead with renewed vigour and purposeful direction.
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“The traditional institution remains the custodian of our rich cultural heritage and serves as the closest link between the government and the grassroots,” the governor said.
“We expect the council to offer visionary leadership and continue to provide wise, objective counsel, particularly on security, culture, community development, and peacebuilding.”
Governor Aiyedatiwa assured the monarchs of his administration’s unwavering support, pledging to prioritise their welfare and the dignity of their offices.
He also reiterated his government’s commitment to the full implementation of the ‘OUR EASE’ seven-point development agenda, which serves as a strategic framework for sustainable growth in the state.
The governor announced that an interactive session would follow the inauguration, providing a platform for traditional rulers to offer direct input on security, youth engagement, community development, and cultural advancement.
In his response, the newly inaugurated chairman, Oba Ogunoye, expressed gratitude to Aiyedatiwa for the confidence reposed in him and pledged to lead the council with integrity, fairness, and dedication to the advancement of the traditional institution.
He also promised the council’s continued support for the government’s developmental agenda while urging fellow monarchs to foster unity and uphold cultural values.
Earlier, the Special Adviser to the governor on Union Matters and Special Duties, Bola Taiwo, congratulated the new chairman and members of the council, expressing optimism that their tenure would promote unity and progress.
He commended the governor’s respect for the traditional institution and his efforts to ensure timely, interference-free appointments of monarchs across the state.
Oba Mofolorunso Samuel Adegboyega Arasanyin, the Ajana Afa of Okeagbe, delivered the vote of thanks on behalf of the Council of Obas, expressing appreciation to the governor for his consistent support of the traditional institution.
The event was attended by the Deputy Governor, Olayide Adelami; Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Olamide Oladiji; Secretary to the State Government, Taiwo Fasoranti; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; APC State Chairman, Engr Ade Adetimehin; members of the State Executive Council; traditional rulers; state lawmakers; local government chairmen; religious leaders; political appointees and other dignitaries.
