Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has charged traditional rulers across the state to embrace dialogue, mediation and diplomacy in settling land disputes, chieftaincy crises and conflicts between communities.
Aiyedatiwa gave the charge on Tuesday in Akure while inaugurating a three-day capacity-building workshop for traditional rulers, organised by the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.
The workshop, themed “Repositioning the Traditional Institution for Harmonious Relationship, Security, Cultural Preservation and Sustainable Development,” was aimed at strengthening the capacity of traditional rulers in conflict management and community administration.
The governor described peace as the foundation for development, urging monarchs to make their palaces centres of justice, fairness and reconciliation. He noted that unresolved disputes over land boundaries, traditional stools and communal interests could undermine peaceful coexistence.
He said traditional rulers, because of their influence and knowledge of their communities, were strategically positioned to prevent disagreements from escalating into crises.
Aiyedatiwa also urged the monarchs to support security agencies by providing timely information on suspicious activities and criminal elements.
He pledged that his administration would continue to strengthen the Ondo State Security Network Agency, known as Amotekun Corps, while maintaining collaboration with federal security agencies.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Amidu Takuro, said the workshop would improve the ability of traditional rulers to settle disputes, promote inter-community harmony and strengthen collaboration with security agencies.
The Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Obas and Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye, commended the state government for the initiative, describing it as a significant step towards improving the capacity of traditional rulers.
He assured the government of the council’s continued cooperation in promoting peace and development across the state.
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