Five kings who were recently promoted to the position of obas in the state received staff of office and instruments of appointment from Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, the governor of Ondo State.
By recognizing and elevating 62 Chiefs to the position of an Oba, Governor Akeredolu carried out the proposal of the Justice Chris Ajama Judicial Commission of enquiry into Chieftaincy Matters.
The Obas who received the Staff of Office and Instrument of Office were Oba J.K. Ajomole, the Ojogbabriaka of Ilado Community, Oba Olowoniyi Adeniyi Abejoye, the Olurokun of Irokun, Oba Olatuga Anthony Anjorin, the Orunmija of Idigbengben, and Oba Kalejaye Rotimi Williams, the Monehin of Obine
Governor Akeredolu was represented by his Deputy, Lucky Ayedatiwa, at Irokun, Idigbengben and Obinehin.
At Ilado and Isi, the Governor was represented by his Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Akinwumi Sowore.
Governor Akeredolu said he elevated the Obas to address several disputes and agitations as well as ensure lasting peace in the different communities.
He said his actions were pointer to government’s belief in the efficacy of traditional institution as a vehicle for promoting peace, harmony and unity among the people.
Governor Akeredolu also cautioned traditional rulers to refrain from appointing or installing minor Chiefs outside their jurisdictions, particularly in disputed areas.
His words, “Our Obas as custodians of customs and traditions are the closest to the people at the grassroots level. Mobilisation of people for positive developments, therefore, can best be achieved through them.
“I will not end this address without informing Kabiyesi Iresi and other revered Obas here present that government will not allow or tolerate any domineering tendency by any traditional ruler under any guise. Every Oba in the State should therefore refrain from appointing or installing minor Chiefs outside his jurisdictions, particularly in disputed areas.”