Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Thursday presented brand-new Toyota SUVs to traditional rulers across the state, in what he described as a gesture to enhance the welfare and dignity of the traditional institution. The event, held in Akure, the state capital, was attended by prominent monarchs, government officials, and community leaders.
Governor Aiyedatiwa noted that the initiative marked a “historic milestone” in the administration’s commitment to strengthening the role of traditional rulers as custodians of peace, culture, and grassroots governance.
“As the custodians of our rich cultural heritage and the closest link between government and the grassroots, our administration recognises your importance and cannot afford to neglect your welfare,” he said.
The governor also highlighted his administration’s efforts to improve the welfare of the royal fathers, including the completion of the long-abandoned secretariat for traditional rulers’ meetings and activities, and the regular payment of the statutory five per cent allocation from the federation accounts to traditional institutions.
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Aiyedatiwa announced that Grade ‘A’ Obas would each receive a 2025 Toyota Fortuner Jeep, while Grade ‘B’ and ‘C’ Obas would later receive 2025 Toyota Cross SUVs. He described the vehicles as “symbols of dignity, honour, and respect” for the royal fathers and urged them to continue supporting the government’s development agenda.
Also speaking at the ceremony, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, commended the governor for fulfilling his promise to the traditional rulers, noting that the gesture recognised their invaluable contributions to peace, unity, and community development across the state.
In his remarks, the Olowo of Owo and Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Obas, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye, expressed appreciation on behalf of his colleagues, describing the gesture as “befitting and commendable.” He lauded the governor’s continued goodwill and pledged the support of the traditional institution in advancing the state’s progress.
NAN
