Ondo state government has warned kingmakers in the state against producing self-acclaimed Obas without adhering strictly to the laid down due process of selection, approval, installation and presentation of Instrument of Appointment and Staff of Office.
The government, however, said anybody that is proclaimed an Oba and wears an unauthorised crown would risk life imprisonment.
The warning was issued at the official presentation of the instrument of appointment and Staff of Office to Oba Oluwasegun Joseph Adetuwo, the Olu of Igodan – Lisa, Oba Olugbemi Sewo, the Oloto/Olura of Igbinsin Oloto and Oba Temidayo Owoyele, the Olikan of Etikan in Okitipupa and Ilaje local government respectively.
Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu who was represented by the commissioner for local government and chieftaincy affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, said the state would not tolerate any turbulence resulting from a breach of due process in the installation of Obas.
He said the state would not hesitate to deal decisively with any prince, Ruling House, or kingmakers that disobeyed government orders in the process of self-aggrandizement.
The governor urged the new monarchs to see their appointments as a divine call to serve their people, warning them to exercise restraint in the use of authority and powers conferred on them.
Akeredolu also warned the traditional rulers not to extend their influence and authority beyond their domains as expansionist tendencies that could jeopardise the peace and well-being of the people would not be tolerated.
The chairman of Okitipupa local government, Hon. Igbekele Akinrinwa, urged the communities to use the same zeal and vigour they used to actualise their long-time dream of having their monarch to move their communities forward.
The Olikan of Etikan, Oba Temidayo Owoyele whose stool was also elevated from grade B to A, promised to support the government as well as use their wealth of experience and goodwill to develop their communities.
