Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has inaugurated the Olowo of Owo, Oba (Dr.) Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III as the Chairman Council of Obas
The inauguration ceremony took place at the International Centre for Culture and Events (The Dome), Igbatoro Road, Akure.
Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized the constitutional and governance relevance of the Council of Obas, referencing its legal foundation under Chapter V, Section 33 of the Chiefs Law of Ondo State 1984, as amended.
He also highlighted the Council’s statutory responsibilities, which include advising the Governor on matters relating to customary law, cultural affairs, inter-communal relations, and chieftaincy matters, as well as contributing to the maintenance of public order and broader policy issues affecting the traditional institution.
He noted that the newly inaugurated Council marks the 12th since the creation of Ondo State in 1976, comprising a chairman and all first-class Obas, with temporary representation for local governments without a first-class monarch.
He congratulates the newly appointed Chairman and other members of the Council describing their appointment as a call to higher service and expressed confidence in their capacity to provide renewed vigour and direction.
He described the traditional institution as the custodians of the state’s rich cultural heritage and the closest link between the government and the grassroots, Aiyedatiwa emphasized the indispensable roles played by traditional rulers in peace building, community development, moral leadership, and cultural preservation.
He charged the new Council to offer visionary leadership and continue to provide wise, objective counsel to the state government, particularly on issues concerning security, culture, grassroots development, and communal harmony.
He said “I expect a Council that will continue to offer government wise and unbiased advice. Your collective wisdom is an invaluable asset that we must leverage for the advancement of our dear State.
“Let me unequivocally state that our administration is fully committed to supporting our traditional institutions and advancing their cause…Your welfare and the dignity of your exalted offices will always be a priority for this government.”
Governor Aiyedatiwa also assured the royal fathers of his administration’s dedication to the full implementation of the “OUR EASE” 7-point development agenda, which is central to the state’s governance and development strategy.
The newly inaugurated Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Obas and the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, expressed appreciation to Governor Aiyedatiwa for the confidence reposed in him and other members of the council. He pledged to lead with integrity, fairness, and commitment to the advancement of the traditional institution in Ondo State.
Oba Ogunoye also reaffirmed the council’s support for the government’s developmental agenda, while calling on fellow monarchs to maintain harmony and uphold the values of their forebears.
