The Ondo State Government has asserted that the appointment of Prince Adewale Fatunsi Richard as the new Olusupare of Supare-Akoko followed legal protocols. Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, stated that the administration under Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa remains committed to due process and did not ignore any active court rulings.
This defense comes after lawyer Tolu Babaleye, representing a rival candidate, Prince Solomon Animasahun Adelakun, accused the government of disregarding an ongoing injunction. Takuro countered that the initial order was merely an interim measure that expired after 14 days, noting that the selection process in the community saw one candidate receive five votes, another four, and the complainant zero.
The government explained that the vacancy had caused significant leadership instability, prompting them to proceed after legal counsel confirmed no active obstacles remained. Takuro contrasted this with other areas, such as Ore, where the government has halted action due to pending appeals. Addressing separate concerns regarding regional renaming, the commissioner clarified that the shift from Irun-Akoko to Oke-Oro was a direct result of a High Court judgment, not an independent government decision.
Furthermore, Takuro confirmed the completion of project inspections across all 18 local government areas, indicating that council performances met expectations. To ensure future accountability, the government has established a data collection team tasked with monitoring local projects. This initiative aims to improve grassroots service delivery and curb rural-to-urban migration by enhancing local amenities.
