The Ogun State Executive Council has approved the upgrading and recognition of several traditional stools across the state as part of efforts to strengthen traditional institutions and preserve the state’s rich cultural heritage.
The approvals were announced in a statement issued on Sunday by the Special Adviser to Governor Dapo Abiodun on Information and Strategy, Hon. Kayode Akinmade, who said the decisions reflected the administration’s commitment to promoting effective traditional governance and community development.
According to the statement, the Council approved the upgrading and appointment of the Akoko of Tongeji Island into a recognised chieftaincy, the declaration of the Onitafin of Orile Itafin as a recognised chieftaincy, and the appointment of the Olu of Orile Itori Odo into a recognised chieftaincy.
The Executive Council also approved the creation and upgrading of certain coronet stools under the Ijebu, Egba and Yewa Traditional Councils in line with established procedures guiding the recognition and development of traditional institutions in Ogun State.
Akinmade said the approvals reaffirm Governor Abiodun’s commitment to preserving Ogun State’s cultural heritage while strengthening the role of traditional rulers as critical partners in governance, peacebuilding and grassroots development.
He noted that the recognition and upgrading of deserving traditional stools would further enhance the dignity of the institutions, promote orderly traditional administration and deepen collaboration between traditional rulers and government in advancing sustainable development across the state.
“The decisions reaffirm Governor Abiodun’s commitment to preserving Ogun State’s rich cultural heritage and strengthening traditional institutions as indispensable partners in promoting peace, security, grassroots governance and community development,” Akinmade stated.
He added that the recognition and upgrading of the traditional stools would foster greater cooperation between the government and royal fathers, while ensuring that traditional institutions continue to play their constitutional and cultural roles in the development of their respective communities.
The state government maintained that the approvals form part of the administration’s broader institutional reforms aimed at building a modern Ogun State where governance, culture and development work together for the benefit of residents.
