Ondo monarchs demand recognition, entitlements

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According to him, the courts - most recently in judgments delivered in February and May 2025 - have settled the dispute, affirming that appointments made under the Deji’s authority are valid and binding.

Despite these rulings, Oba Ojo accused Ondo State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and Akure North Local Government authorities of continuing to recognise and remunerate individuals whose claims had been dismissed by the courts, while denying duly installed traditional rulers their rights.

He also referenced a 2022 advisory from the state Ministry of Justice, which supported the Deji’s authority pending any contrary ruling-an advisory they say remains ignored even after the appellate court’s decisions.

“Despite these clear and binding judicial pronouncements, it is deeply concerning that authorities within Akure North Local Government and Ondo State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs continue to recognise and remunerate individuals purportedly appointed by parties, whose claims have been dismissed by the courts.

“Equally troubling is the continued refusal to recognise the duly appointed Olus installed by the Deji of Akure Kingdom, as well as the failure to pay their rightful salaries and entitlements.

“It is important to recall that as far back as February 14, 2022, Ondo State Ministry of Justice, in an advisory to the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, clearly stated that the prescribed authority of the Deji of Akure Kingdom should be upheld pending any contrary decision by a higher court. Today, even after the Court of Appeal has affirmed the High Court judgments, this lawful position is yet to be implemented,” he said.

The monarch warned that continued refusal to implement court judgments undermined the rule of law, fuelled tension, and created administrative confusion in the affected communities.

The traditional rulers called on the government to recognise all minor chiefs duly appointed by the Deji of Akure Kingdom, Oba Aladetoyinbo, as legitimate Olus of their communities, cease recognition and payment of salaries to individuals whose appointments have been invalidated by the courts, and pay outstanding salaries, allowances and entitlements owed them.

The group also demanded full compliance with the judgments of the High Court and the Court of Appeal affirming the Deji of Akure Kingdom as the prescribed authority in chieftaincy matters within Akure North and Akure South councils.

“Cease forthwith the recognition and payment of salaries to individuals appointed by parties who have been adjudged by the courts to lack the authority to do so.

“Pay all outstanding salaries, allowances and entitlements due to the duly appointed Olus from the dates of their appointments.

“Fully comply with the judgments of the High Court and the Court of Appeal affirming the Deji of Akure Kingdom as the prescribed authority in chieftaincy matters within Akure North and Akure South local governments.

“We believe that the Ondo State Government, as a law-abiding institution, will not continue to act in a manner inconsistent with the binding decisions of courts of competent jurisdiction,” the monarchs said.

They, however, added that failure to comply within 14 days of their March 23, 2026 letter would compel them to pursue all lawful means to enforce their rights.

“This is not merely a dispute over chieftaincy titles - it is a test of our collective commitment to the rule of law, justice and orderly governance. Respect for judicial authority remains the cornerstone of a peaceful and democratic society,” the traditional rulers added.