By Erewunmi Peace

The Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, has issued a strong message to traditional rulers who disregard cultural customs after ascending the throne, urging them to resign rather than desecrate the values of their forebears.

Speaking at a colloquium in Akure, the Ondo State capital, to mark the 10th coronation anniversary of the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, the Olowo emphasized that upholding tradition is a sacred duty for any monarch.

“It is not by force to become an Oba. But once you become an Oba, you must respect tradition. If you know you cannot keep the customs and practices that come with the throne, please step down,” the Olowo declared.

Oba Ogunoye, who also serves as the Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Traditional Rulers, condemned what he described as a growing trend of modern-day monarchs attempting to redefine or water down traditional roles and rituals.

He added that the cultural identity of the Yoruba and other ethnic groups in Nigeria rests heavily on the shoulders of their traditional institutions — institutions that must not be compromised for personal or political convenience.

The colloquium, themed “Preserving Our Heritage: The Role of Traditional Institutions in Modern Governance”, brought together several monarchs, scholars, and political leaders. It featured keynote addresses from Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State and Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, who both emphasized the continued relevance of traditional rulers in development, security, and cultural preservation.

Governor Makinde called for traditional institutions to be constitutionally integrated into governance frameworks, while also defending their critical role in grassroots development and communal trust.

The event also included a paper presentation by political analyst Dr. Festus Adedayo, who echoed similar concerns about modern monarchs failing to honor the deep-rooted customs of their thrones.