After decades of disputes and years of legal battles over the throne of Akungba-Akoko in Ondo State, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa on Saturday formally presented the Staff of Office to His Royal Majesty, Oba Isiaka Oseni Adu, as the Alale of Akungba.
The ceremony, held in Akungba, Akoko South West Local Government Area, drew community leaders, traditional rulers, and government officials who hailed the governor for resolving the long-standing chieftaincy tussle.
Governor Aiyedatiwa said the recognition of Oba Adu signified the conclusion of a long struggle for justice and peace in the 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,” the Governor declared.
He explained that while it was traditionally the turn of the Olugbade Ruling House to produce the next monarch following the demise of Oba Sunday Adeyeye Ajimo in March 2025, government had no option but to abide by existing court rulings that validated Adu’s claim.
The governor stressed that his administration had no bias in chieftaincy matters, describing the move as a reconciliatory step within the Ole Ruling House.
Appealing for calm, he urged the Olugbade Ruling House to exercise patience. “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 said.
Congratulating the new monarch, Aiyedatiwa reminded him of the responsibilities attached to the throne.
“Kabiyesi, 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 victimize perceived opponents,” he cautioned.
He also highlighted ongoing government projects in the area, including the dualization of the Akungba–Ikare Road and flood control efforts, reiterating that roadside traders should relocate to the Atiba Market for safety. On security, he assured residents of his administration’s continued support for Amotekun and other agencies.
Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Amidu Takuro, praised the governor for upholding due process, while Chairman of Akoko South West Local Government, Hon. Ayo Ajana, described the occasion as the beginning of a new era for the town.
In his remarks, Oba Isiaka Oseni Adu expressed gratitude to God and to the state government for ensuring his installation.
“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 Executive Governor of Ondo State for upholding the Supreme Court judgment on the Alale chieftaincy matter, which has culminated in my installation as the Alale of Akungba today,” the monarch said.
He described the moment as historic, noting that it fulfilled the aspirations of the Agure royal family that dated back to 1951. He pledged to focus his reign on fostering unity and driving the development of Akungba.
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