Ondo AG Hails 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.
Dr. Ajulo also addressed internal challenges plaguing traditional institutions, including political interference in appointments, unclear succession processes leading to endless litigation, a growing disconnect between traditional rulers and the youth, and instances where some monarchs prioritise wealth over wisdom. He called for self-assessment and internal reforms such as adopting a code of conduct, creating ethics review boards, partnering with civil society for public education, and digitising oral traditions and historical records for future generations.
Clarifying a widespread misconception about the constitutional relevance of traditional institutions, Ajulo pointed out that Section 7(1) of the 1999 Constitution recognises local governance structures, which often depend on traditional rulers for their effectiveness. He cited ongoing proposals in the National Assembly seeking to give traditional institutions formal recognition as key stakeholders in governance.
Ajulo ended his address with a rallying cry for a future where traditional institutions are not relics of the past but resources for the future. He said, “We must restore dignity to our crowns, purpose to our palaces, and power to our heritage. As long as kings walk among us, let them do so with honour, relevance, and impact.”
The colloquium, part of a week-long celebration of Oba Aladetoyinbo’s decade-long reign, was held at the Obafemi Awolowo Auditorium of the Federal University of Technology, Akure. It brought together eminent personalities, including the Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, who delivered the keynote address; Vice President Kashim Shettima, represented by Dr. Tope Fausa; and Ondo State Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti. Traditional rulers such as the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye, and the Olu of Ilu Abo, Oba Olu Falae, were also in attendance alongside other dignitaries.
