Ondo AG Hails Gov. Aiyedatiwa’s Exemplary Support for Traditional Institutions
Ondo AG Hails Gov. Aiyedatiwa’s Exemplary Support for Traditional Institutions, Seeks Reforms at Deji of Akure’s 10th Anniversary
…Says crowns must regain dignity, palaces their purpose, and tradition its rightful place in nation-building
Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Ondo State, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo SAN, OON has commended Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for his exemplary support of traditional rulers in Ondo State, saying, “At a time when tradition risks being overshadowed by modernity, Governor Aiyedatiwa has chosen collaboration over control.”
Dr. Ajulo stated this at a special colloquium marking the 10th coronation anniversary of the Deji of Akure, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr) Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, Odundun II. He highlighted interventions such as the consistent payment of their salaries and dues as stipulated by the law and conventions, the restoration and elevation of chieftaincy titles in marginalised communities, security partnerships like the Amotekun Corps, which leverage traditional rulers for grassroots intelligence, and the inclusion of royal fathers in local governance and judicial processes.
He also called for bold reforms of Nigeria’s traditional institutions to reposition them as catalysts for nation-building.
As one of the discussants, Dr. Ajulo began with a Yoruba proverb: “Odo to ba gbagbe orisun re yio gbe” (A river that forgets its source will soon run dry), to stress the indispensable role of traditional institutions in sustaining Nigeria’s cultural and political fabric. He spoke from a unique vantage point, as Attorney General of Ondo State, a cultural chief in Akure, and as a passionate citizen, calling for a renewed commitment to acknowledge, reform, and rejuvenate traditional institutions for the future.