Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has urged traditional rulers to prioritise dialogue, mediation and diplomacy when resolving land disputes, chieftaincy disagreements and inter-community conflicts.

Mr Aiyedatiwa made the call on Tuesday in Akure during the inauguration of a three-day capacity-building workshop for traditional rulers in the state.

The workshop, organised by the state Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, has as its theme “Repositioning the Traditional Institution for Harmonious Relationship, Security, Cultural Preservation and Sustainable Development.”

The governor said peace was prerequisite for development, stressing the crucial role of traditional rulers in maintaining harmonious relationships within and among communities.

“Peace is the prerequisite for all progress. When peace reigns in our domains, development naturally follows.

“Traditional rulers should ensure that their palaces remain sanctuaries of justice, fairness and reconciliation.

“Traditional institutions have historically played critical roles in maintaining law and order and promoting peaceful coexistence in communities. Issues such as land boundaries, chieftaincy disputes and inter-community conflicts can threaten peaceful coexistence if not managed properly,” he said.

Mr Aiyedatiwa, therefore, urged traditional rulers to deploy the experience, influence and knowledge of their communities to prevent disputes from escalating into crises.

Mr Aiyedatiwa also stressed the importance of the traditional institution in addressing security challenges in the state.

He said his administration would continue to strengthen the State Security Network Agency, also known as the Amotekun Corps, while collaborating with federal security agencies.

According to him, traditional rulers possess strong local intelligence networks through community associations, hunters and other groups.

He urged them to identify suspicious movements, report criminal elements and strengthen community policing partnerships with security agencies.

The governor said the three-day workshop was designed to equip traditional rulers with contemporary tools in conflict management, legal frameworks, security cooperation and community administration.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Amidu Takuro, said the workshop would strengthen the capacity of traditional rulers to resolve local disputes and foster inter-community harmony.

Mr Takuro said the programme would also strengthen royal intelligence for crime detection and enhance collaboration between traditional institutions and security agencies.

He urged the participants to actively engage with experts and facilitators during the workshop to maximise its benefits.

Also, the Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Traditional Rulers, Ajibade Ogunoye, commended the governor and the ministry for organising the workshop.

Mr Ogunoye, also the Olowo of Owo, described the initiative as novel in the state, saying it would enhance the knowledge and capacity of traditional rulers.

He assured the state government of the council’s continued support and cooperation in promoting peace and development across the state. 

(NAN)