By Fisayo Akinduro
Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Thursday, presented new vehicles to traditional rulers across the state, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of royal fathers and strengthening the traditional institution.
At the official presentation ceremony held at the Obas Secretariat, Igbatoro Road, Akure, Aiyedatiwa described the event as a fulfilment of his promise to prioritise the welfare of traditional rulers and promote peace at the grassroots.
The governor said the gesture demonstrated his administration’s appreciation for the unwavering support of traditional rulers, particularly in maintaining peace and security within their domains.
“Today’s event underscores a major step in fulfilling our promises to protect and advance the welfare of our traditional institution,” Aiyedatiwa said.
He noted that within his first year in office, the government had completed the long-abandoned project of constructing a befitting Secretariat for royal fathers, in addition to ensuring the regular payment of the statutory 5 per cent allocation from the Federation Account to the 18 local government areas for traditional institutions.
According to him, the vehicles being presented are “symbols of dignity, honour and respect” to enhance the efficiency of monarchs in discharging their duties.
“All Grade ‘A’ Obas in Ondo State will go home with a Toyota Forerunner Jeep, 2025 model, while all Grade ‘B and C’ Obas will later receive a Toyota Cross Jeep, 2025 model,” the governor announced, adding that the state government bore the huge cost despite other pressing needs as a mark of respect for traditional rulers.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, described the presentation as a gesture of appreciation and recognition of the invaluable roles played by traditional rulers in promoting peace, unity and community development.
Also speaking, the Chairman of Akure South Local Government and Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Ondo State, Dr Gbenga Fasua, hailed the governor for his commitment to grassroots development and inclusivity.
Responding on behalf of the traditional rulers, the Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Obas and Olowo of Owo, Oba (Dr) Ajibade Ogunoye III, commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for the gesture, describing it as a fulfilment of his promise to improve the welfare of royal fathers.
Oba Ogunoye noted that the administration had demonstrated genuine respect for traditional rulers through various interventions, adding that the move would further strengthen the cordial relationship between the government and the traditional institution.