By Jimoh Ahmed
Akungba-Akoko wore the look of a town reborn on Saturday as indigenes trooped out in their thousands to witness a moment that had eluded them for decades — the presentation of the Staff of Office to their new monarch, His Royal Majesty, Oba Isiaka Oseni Adu, by Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa.
The ceremony, held in the heart of Akoko South West Local Government Area, drew traditional rulers, government officials, community leaders, and jubilant residents who hailed the governor for finally laying to rest a protracted chieftaincy crisis that had dragged through the courts and polarised the community for over half a century.
For many, the day symbolised not just the installation of a new Alale but the restoration of peace, unity, and dignity to a town that had long been held hostage by disputes over succession to the throne.
“Justice, Equity, and Peace”
Governor Aiyedatiwa, performing the symbolic presentation, described Oba Adu’s recognition as the logical outcome of a long judicial process that consistently validated his claim.
“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,” he declared, drawing thunderous applause from the crowd.
Although he noted that the Olugbade Ruling House would ordinarily have produced the next monarch following the passing of Oba Sunday Adeyeye Ajimo in March this year, the governor stressed that government had to uphold the subsisting court rulings.
“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,” Aiyedatiwa added, appealing for calm and reconciliation among the warring factions of the Ole Ruling House.
A New Responsibility for the Throne
Turning to the new Alale, the governor reminded him of the weighty responsibilities ahead.
“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 seized the occasion to highlight his administration’s ongoing developmental strides in the region — including the dualization of the Akungba–Ikare Road, flood mitigation projects, and relocation of roadside traders to the Atiba Market for safety. On security, he reassured residents of a stronger Amotekun Corps and closer synergy with other agencies.
Voices of Gratitude
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Amidu Takuro, praised the governor’s leadership, noting that due process and fairness guided the resolution of the age-long crisis. Similarly, Chairman of Akoko South West Local Government, Hon. Ayo Ajana, described the event as “the dawn of a new threshold for Akungba,” while thanking the governor for approving key projects in the area, including the Akungba–Ikare dual carriageway and 5km of roads in each LGA.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Adu was visibly emotional. Expressing gratitude to God and the state government, he said his enthronement was the culmination of a long journey that began in 1951 when his Agure royal family first aspired to the stool.
“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 today,” the monarch said.
Pledging to make peace and development the hallmark of his reign, he promised to prioritise unity and healing in a community that has been divided for far too long.
A Community Reborn
For the people of Akungba, the governor’s action has done more than resolve a royal tussle. It has rekindled hopes for stability, opened doors for long-awaited development, and restored confidence in the future of their town.
As the new Alale, Oba Isiaka Oseni Adu, took his seat with the Staff of Office firmly in his grasp, many residents whispered what they had waited years to say: Akungba is finally at peace.
