By Adedotun Ajayi

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The Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has officially dissolved the 11th Ondo State Council of Obas and announced the appointment of the Olowo of Owo, Oba (Dr.) Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye II, as the new Chairman of the 12th Council.

Governor Aiyedatiwa made the declaration on Thursday at the Council of Obas’ Secretariat, Igbatoro Road, Akure, during a formal ceremony marking the dissolution of the outgoing Council, whose tenure lasted from 2022 to 2025.

In his speech, Governor Aiyedatiwa praised the contributions of the outgoing Council, particularly commending the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Adelusi, Odundun II, for his leadership over the past two years.

“It is imperative to commend the outgoing Chairman of the Council of Obas, His Imperial Majesty Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Adelusi, Odundun II, for providing transformative leadership for the Council in the last two years.

“Kabiyesi, you have demonstrated capacity, love, and ingenuity in handling matters affecting the development of the State. I thank you for your selfless service and unwavering dedication,” the governor said.

Reflecting on the achievements of the outgoing Council, Aiyedatiwa underscored the state government’s continued commitment to strengthening the traditional institution.

He cited several significant accomplishments, including the resolution of long-standing chieftaincy issues through the implementation of the Ondo State White Paper on the Justice C.E.T. Ajama Judicial Commission of Inquiry. This, he said, led to the elevation of many existing stools and the upgrading or recognition of several minor chieftaincies.

The governor also highlighted the administration’s abolition of the Grade ‘D’ Obas category, noting, “Before this milestone achievement, our administration had earlier abolished the class of Grade ‘D’ Obas in the State, thereby elevating all Obas in that category to Grade ‘C’ automatically.”

Another key milestone mentioned by the governor was the implementation of a 5% statutory allocation for traditional rulers, a move that Aiyedatiwa described as a testament to the government’s belief in the vital role of traditional rulers.

“This landmark decision underscores our belief in the crucial role you play and our commitment to providing the necessary impetus and resources to support your noble responsibilities within your domains,” he said.

Aiyedatiwa also expressed satisfaction over the completion of the Ondo State Council of Obas’ Secretariat.

“With great satisfaction, we witnessed the completion of the Ondo State Council of Obas’ Secretariat, the construction of which started many years ago.

This dedicated facility stands as a symbol of our love and respect for this esteemed Council and will undoubtedly provide a more conducive environment for your deliberations and administrative functions.”

The governor reassured the traditional rulers of sustained government support, announcing plans for further initiatives to enhance their status.

In his address, Aiyedatiwa officially dissolved the 11th Council and confirmed the formation of the 12th Council under the leadership of Oba Ogunoye.

In his acceptance speech, the Olowo of Owo thanked the governor for the appointment, promising to build on the productive relationship between the Council and the government.

Oba Ajibade commended the leadership style of Governor Aiyedatiwa, his model of governance and the many achievements he has recorded since becoming governor.