Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has called on all traditional rulers in the state to always exercise restraints and caution in the use of traditional authority and powers.
The governor made the call on Tuesday at the official presentation of the instrument of appointment and staff of office to the Larogbo of Akotogbo, Oba Barrister Michael Elumaro Akinfolarin, in Akotogbo, Irele Local Government Area of the state.
Aiyedatiwa, who was represented by his deputy, Chief Olayide Adelami, said the unity of the people in every community is a great asset that must be explored for the socioeconomic development of their respective communities.
According to him, the instrument of office should be employed to strengthen the bond of love and unity among their subjects.
The governor, who also reiterated the commitment of his administration to the security of all residents of the state, however, said the government would not spare the rod to rid the entire state of crimes and criminalities.
He said, “Permit me to inform this gathering that the security of the inhabitants of this state is a top priority of our administration, and we shall continue to make concerted efforts to rid our communities of miscreants and other criminals in our dear state.
“There is no denying the fact that the state government has committed enormous resources to strengthening the Amotekun Corps in terms of equipment and human resources.
“This is in addition to funding other security agencies in the state through regular logistical support. This government cannot tolerate a situation where our citizens cannot conduct their daily businesses in a safe environment.”
Governor Aiyedatiwa, who congratulated Oba Michael Akinfolarin on his accession to the throne of his forefathers, which became vacant on May 20, 2009, as a result of the demise of Oba Jolade Turoti, rejoiced with the people of Arogbo and urged all contestants to join hands with the new monarch for the accelerated development of the town.
In his response, the new Larogbo of Akotogbo, Oba Michael Elumaro Akinfolarin, appreciated Governor Aiyedatiwa and assured that he would administer his people with utmost fairness.
Some of the royal fathers who witnessed the ceremony include the Jegun of Idepe, Oba Michael Obatuga Adetoye; the Ahaba of Ajagba, Oba Thomas Adesayo, JP; the Odogbo of Omi, Oba Akinyelure Olorunsola Ajiboye; the Oniju of Iju-Odo, Oba Festus Oyedele Olumoyegun; and Oba J.E. Ola Ayeku, the Obagbemure of Igbodigo.
The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr. Dele Adesanmi, led the directors and staff of the ministry to the event, while the Head of Local Government Administration in Irele Local Government, Dr. Williams Okorobo, led the staff of the local government to the ceremony.
The Acting Deputy Chief of Staff to the Deputy Governor, Hon. Olayemi Adeyemi, and the Archbishop, Methodist Archdiocese of Igbobini, Most Revd. (Dr.) Olugbenga Olugbayo Fafeyiwa, with his wife and other clergy, were part of the dignitaries at the ceremony.
