The Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has appointed the Olowo of Owo, Oba (Dr) Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye II, as the new Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Traditional Rulers.
The announcement was made on Thursday during a special meeting at the Obas’ Secretariat in Akure, marking the completion of the tenure of the outgoing leadership under the Deji of Akure, Oba (Dr.) Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi Odundun II.
Governor Aiyedatiwa took the opportunity to commend the outgoing leadership for their invaluable contributions to the state.
He expressed his gratitude to the Deji of Akure for his support, saying, “I commend the outgoing Chairman of the Council of Obas, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Adelusi, Odundun II, for his transformative leadership over the last two years. Kabiyesi, your capacity, love, and ingenuity in handling matters impacting the state’s development have been outstanding. We thank you for your selfless service and unwavering dedication.”
Reflecting on the achievements made during the tenure of the outgoing Council, the Governor highlighted progress in resolving long-standing chieftaincy issues, including the successful implementation of the Ondo State White Paper on the Hon. Justice C.E.T. Ajama Judicial Commission of Inquiry.
He also noted the significant elevation of many existing stools and the upgrading or recognition of several minor chieftaincies.
Additionally, the abolition of the Grade ‘D’ Obas category and the implementation of the 5% statutory allocation for traditional rulers were marked as notable achievements.
Governor Aiyedatiwa added, “We also saw the completion of the Ondo State Council of Obas’ Secretariat, which began many years ago. This dedicated facility is a symbol of our respect for this esteemed Council and will provide a better environment for your administrative functions.”
The Governor reassured the traditional rulers of continued support and promised more initiatives to enhance their status.
Following the official dissolution of the 11th Council, he announced the formation of the 12th Council with Oba (Dr) Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye II as Chairman.
In his remarks, the Deji of Akure expressed gratitude to the governor for his unparalleled support to the traditional institution, noting that almost all the Obas’ requests had been met over the past year. He urged the Governor to extend this support to the new leadership.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Ogunoye thanked the Governor for the appointment and promised to build on the productive relationship between the Council and the state government.
He also commended the Governor for his leadership style and the many accomplishments under his administration.
The event was also attended by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Prince Segun Omojuwa, and the Governor’s Special Adviser on Union Matters and Special Duties, Comrade Bola Taiwo, among others.
