Ondo: Government Goes After Fake Traditional Rulers, Orders Mass Arrest

By Ayodele Oni

Ondo state government has ordered arrest of some persons parading themselves as traditional rulers in the state.

Government has also cancelled closure of markets to celebrate traditional festivals without official approval.

The order is coming after two monarchs in Akure early in the week clashed over closure of market during the celebration of Aheregbe festival.

The State Executive Council, which took the decisions also announced upgrading of some Traditional Rulers across the State to different grades.

Similarly, the council approved the elevation of some Chiefs to the status of Obas in the various communities

The names and upgraded grades of the affected Monarchs will be published by the government in a white paper which will be made available to members of the public soon.

Briefing journalists shortly after the weekly State Executive Council meeting, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mrs Bamidele Ademola-Olateju disclosed that the Council equally resolved and regularized disputed stools in the state.

She, however, added that the issue of paramountcy is still pending and awaiting the amendment of the State’s Chieftaincy Law.

”Some persons have been parading themselves as Olofun of Irele in Irele Local Government and Olu of Igodanlisa in Okitipupa Local Government without the approval of the State Executive Council.

“The State Executive Council has decided that such persons be arrested and investigated for their infractions against the State Chieftaincy Law.”

The government spokesperson also informed that the Executive Council has mandated that there shall be no closure of markets in any part of the State without the approval of the Governor.

“The State EXCO also noted the permit granted for the observance of traditional festivals in the state. The government hereby reiterates that there shall be no closure of markets without the approval of the Governor.

“Where approval is granted, such approval shall be limited to the Oba’s market alone, not shops in residential areas.

“In addition, we  discussed the use of Yoruba Language in communication as government interfaces with the people and its officers.

“At the State Executive Council, we decided that we encourage the use of Yoruba or other native languages like Ijaw, Ikale, Ilaje, as the case may be, in our communication.”

The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Sir Charles Titiloye said:  “You will recall that sometimes ago, Ondo State Government set up Justice Ajama Panel to look into Chieftaincy Matters in the state in which the report was submitted about eight years ago.

“The Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu administration has decided to implement the report submitted by that Panel.

“This has given birth to the recommendations that have been approved by the State Executive Council, to the effect some Obas have been upgraded from grade  ‘C’ to ‘B’, and some from B to A.”

The Attorney-General, however, said those promoted should await government White Paper on their elevation which will soon be published by government.