Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has reiterated that his administration would continue to maintain neutrality in chieftaincy matters.

Mr Aiyedatiwa stated this on Saturday while presenting the instrument of office to Oba Isiaka Adu, as the Alale of Akungba Akoko in Akoko South-West Local Government Area of the state.

The governor, who said the presentation of staff of office after years of protracted legal battle and decades of chieftaincy disputes, was for the restoration of peace in the community.

Mr Aiyedatiwa assured that the decision was not an endorsement of one ruling house over another but a step to reconcile the warring factions within the ruling houses.

“It is only logical to allow Oba Isiaka 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,” he said.

The governor explained that although it was the turn of the Olugbade Ruling House to produce the next monarch following the passing of Oba Sunday Adeyeye Ajimo in March 2025, he noted that government had to act in line with existing court rulings that validated Adu’s claim.

“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 tranquillity in Akungba community.

“You are now a father to all. You must see your ascension to the throne as a service to your people.

“The staff of office should be employed to strengthen peace, unity, and cohesion of your town, not to victimise perceived opponents,” he said.

Earlier, the commissioner for local government and chieftaincy affairs, Amidu Takuro, commended the governor’s respect for due process in resolving the age-long tussle.

Also speaking, chairman of Akoko South-West Local Government, Ayo Ajana, described the event as the dawn of a new threshold for Akungba.

In his response, Oba Isiaka Adu, expressed gratitude to God, and appreciated the state government for making his installation possible.

“I lack human words to fully express my profound gratitude to the Almighty Father for making this day a reality.

“I am equally indebted to the governor for upholding the Supreme Court judgment on the Alale chieftaincy matter, which has culminated in my installation as the Alale of Akungba today,” he said.

He described the occasion as historic, noting that it marked the fruition of a journey that began in 1951 with the aspiration of the Agure royal family to ascend the throne.

The traditional ruler pledged to prioritise unity and development of the community during his reign.

 (NAN)