Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Saturday declared that it was only logical and just to allow Oba Isiaka Oseni Adu, who secured victory through the courts, to enjoy the benefits of his legal triumph as the rightful Alale of Akungba-Akoko.
The governor, who presented the Staff of Office to Oba Adu in Akungba-Akoko, said the decision was not about government favouring one ruling house over another, but about respecting judicial rulings and restoring peace to the long-troubled community.
“It is only logical to allow His Royal Majesty, Oba Isiaka Oseni Adu, who obtained favourable judgments at all levels of the judicial processes, to enjoy the benefits of his legal victory in the best interest of fair play, equity, and justice,” Aiyedatiwa affirmed.
He explained that though tradition dictated it was the turn of the Olugbade Ruling House to produce the next monarch after the passing of Oba Sunday Adeyeye Ajimo in March 2025, the state had to abide by existing court pronouncements.
Aiyedatiwa stressed that his administration remained neutral in chieftaincy matters.
He urged all sides to embrace peace and accept the government’s decision in the interest of unity.
“This is not an expression of government’s preference for any ruling house whatsoever, but an action taken in the overall best interest of peace and tranquility in Akungba community,” the governor cautioned.
The governor congratulated the new monarch, reminding him that his ascension carried a burden of responsibility.
He urged Oba Adu to be a father to all and use his reign to promote peace and unity rather than division.
While addressing the gathering, Aiyedatiwa also restated his government’s commitment to the development of Akungba, citing the ongoing dualization of the Akungba–Ikare Road and flood mitigation projects.
He further warned roadside traders along the highway to relocate to the Atiba Market for safety reasons.
On security, the governor assured the people of his administration’s determination to strengthen the Amotekun Corps and other agencies to safeguard lives and property across the state.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Adu described the occasion as historic, thanking the governor for upholding the Supreme Court judgment that validated his claim.
He pledged to prioritize unity and development during his reign.
