Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has presented the Instrument of Appointment and Staff of Office to Oba Akintoye Felix Adeoye as the new Olu-Oke of Oke-Igbo in Ile-Oluji/Oke-Igbo Local Government Area of the state.
The ceremony, held on Tuesday at Oke-Igbo, formally ended years of protracted traditional and legal disputes that had left the throne vacant.
The Governor noted that the previous vacancy followed a judicial pronouncement nullifying the appointment of the late Oba Babajide Lawrence Oluwole, after the court ruled he was not a descendant of the Aare Kuigbaigbe Ruling House.
Commending the kingmakers for their role in the selection, the Governor urged the new monarch to prioritize peacebuilding, unity and communal development.
“Kabiyesi, you are now a father to all,” he said. “Forget the acrimony of the past. Do not use your throne to victimize perceived rivals. May Oke-Igbo enjoy peace, growth and development during your reign.”
He also appealed to other contenders and supporters to respect the outcome and put the interest of the community first, describing the emergence of the new king as the collective will of God for Oke-Igbo.
Speaking on security, Governor Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to maintaining safety across the state, noting heavy investments in strengthening the Amotekun Corps alongside other security agencies. He urged residents to support security efforts through vigilance and information sharing.
Highlighting ongoing development efforts, the Governor listed the construction of 5km of roads in each of the 18 local government areas, rehabilitation of health centres statewide, and recruitment of additional medical personnel to strengthen service delivery.
“Our traditional rulers remain vital partners in fostering unity and intelligence gathering,” the Governor said. “We will continue to empower them as custodians of culture.”
Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, said Oba Adeoye’s appointment was approved by the State Executive Council on October 27, 2025, after thorough validation of conformity with Oke-Igbo customs.
Chairman of Ile-Oluji/Oke-Igbo Local Government, Adeboye Adebare, described the event as historic, praising the Governor for resolving a dispute that had lingered for years.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Adeoye pledged to unify the kingdom and promote inclusive progress. As an immediate empowerment gesture, he announced ₦50,000 support for 100 women traders in the community, dedicated to the Governor’s empowerment model.
“Let us join hands to write a new, glorious chapter for Oke-Igbo,” he said.
The event was attended by top government functionaries, traditional rulers, political leaders and community stakeholders
