By Sola Ojewusi
Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State — After decades of disputes and years of protracted legal battles, history was made on Saturday, August 30, 2025, as Ondo State Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa formally presented the Staff of Office to His Royal Majesty, Oba Isiaka Oseni Adu, as the new Alale of Akungba-Akoko in Akoko South West Local Government Area.
The colourful event, witnessed by dignitaries, community leaders, and traditional rulers, marked the resolution of one of the state’s longest-running chieftaincy tussles.
Governor Aiyedatiwa, while performing the presentation, described Oba Adu’s recognition as the culmination of a long-drawn struggle for justice and a necessary step to restore peace to 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.
Although the Olugbade Ruling House was next in line to produce a monarch following the passing of Oba Sunday Adeyeye Ajimo in March 2025, the governor explained that government had to respect the subsisting court rulings which validated Adu’s claim.
He stressed that the government had no bias for any ruling house and appealed for calm.
> “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,” he said.
Congratulating the new monarch, Governor Aiyedatiwa urged him to rule with fairness and inclusivity:
> “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.”
The governor also used the occasion to highlight his administration’s ongoing development projects in the region, including the reconstruction of the Akungba–Ikare dual carriageway, flood mitigation measures, and other infrastructure projects. On security, he reaffirmed his commitment to safeguarding lives and property through strengthened support for the Amotekun Corps and other agencies.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Amidu Takuro, commended the governor for his respect for due process, while the Chairman of Akoko South West Local Government, Hon. Ayo Ajana, described the event as the dawn of a new era for Akungba.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Adu expressed profound gratitude to God and the state government for upholding the rule of law and making his installation possible.
> “I lack human words to fully express my 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,” he said.
The monarch described the installation as historic, noting that it fulfilled the aspiration of the Agure royal family dating back to 1951. He pledged to prioritize unity, peace, and development during his reign.
With the installation of Oba Isiaka Oseni Adu, Akungba-Akoko now looks forward to a new chapter of reconciliation, stability, and progress under its newly crowned monarch.
