Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has reaffirmed the indispensable role of traditional rulers in strengthening security, unity, and development across the state, describing royal institutions as the backbone of communal stability.
The Governor spoke on Saturday at the palace of the Olubaka of Oka-Akoko, Oba (Dr.) Yussuf Adebori Adeleye, OON, JP, during the monarch’s formal elevation into the revered Traditional Elders Council (Ihare). The ceremony also featured the elevation of the Egbe Mabolaje of Ibaka Oka.
Governor Aiyedatiwa said Oba Adeleye’s admission into the Ihare Council was both historic and richly deserved, reflecting his distinguished service, wisdom, and the dignity with which he has stewarded the ancient throne.
He explained that the Ihare Council remains an exclusive circle reserved for individuals of exceptional integrity, character, and influence, adding that the Olubaka’s peaceful reign and sustained contributions to development made the honour a natural recognition.
The Governor congratulated the people of Oka-Akoko at home and in the diaspora and commended the Egbe Mabolaje age-grade group, noting that such traditional structures serve as custodians of discipline, unity, and community order.
Reiterating his administration’s commitment to uplifting traditional institutions, Governor Aiyedatiwa stressed that monarchs remain loyal partners in securing communities, resolving conflicts, and driving grassroots development. He urged the people of Oka-Akoko to remain united in support of their monarch.
“I warmly felicitate His Imperial Majesty, Oba Yusuf Adebori Adeleye, the Olubaka of Oka-Akoko, on the celebration of this year’s Ihare festival, which also coincides with his birthday,” he said.
Describing Ihare as a sacred rite marking entry into the elders’ council, the Governor noted that this year’s celebration carries added significance as it marks the 82nd birthday of a monarch whose life reflects wisdom, dignity, and unwavering service.
He highlighted the Olubaka’s illustrious contributions as a pioneer member of the National Council of Traditional Rulers, former Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Obas, and pioneer Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University, roles that he said have greatly advanced development nationally and within the state.
In his remarks, Oba Adeleye described his elevation as a passage into an age-old class defined by wisdom, endurance, and life’s accumulated journeys. He recounted his path from his early education through his legal career, the bench, and ultimately the throne, saying each stage strengthened him for service to Oka land.
The monarch explained that the Ihare honour is conferred strictly by age, not wealth or titles. The symbolic walking sticks given to inductees, he said, represent endurance, survival, and wisdom—hallmarks of a life well-lived and battles overcome.
He emphasized the historic role of Yoruba age-grade systems as moral compasses, law enforcers, conflict resolvers, and community builders, especially in periods when formal institutions were weak. Under his reign, he said these structures have been revitalised to foster unity, education, health, and peace in Oka land.
Speaking on behalf of the honourees, the Yeye Aare Arimuyangan of Oka Land, Senator Jackson Bent, praised the monarch for the recognition and urged residents to continue supporting Governor Aiyedatiwa’s vision for statewide progress.
The Governor’s Special Adviser on Transport, Akogun Olugbenga Omole, also expressed gratitude to the Governor, the traditional rulers, and the people of Oka for ensuring the success of the event.
