The Ekiti State Executive Council has confirmed the appointment of two traditional rulers, bringing an end to prolonged succession processes in Ayegbaju-Ekiti, Oye Local Government Area, and Ijesa-Isu Ekiti, Ikole Local Government Area.
The council also approved the implementation of the Teachers Harmonised Retirement Age Act, 2022, increasing the retirement age for public school teachers in the state to 65 years or 40 years of pensionable service.
Commissioner for Information, Taiwo Olatunbosun, said in a statement on Thursday that the approvals were granted at a council meeting chaired by Governor Biodun Oyebanji.
Prince Adewole Oluwatosin Adewale was appointed as the new Owa of Ayegbaju-Ekiti, following the passing of Oba Solomon Adeloye in February 2024.
The government confirmed that the selection process adhered strictly to the Registered Chieftaincy Declaration and relevant laws.
Similarly, Prince David Olusegun Ateji was named the new Obanla of Ijesa-Isu Ekiti after the death of Oba Gabriel Oso Adeniyi in September 2024, with the nomination process conducted in accordance with the existing chieftaincy laws and declarations.
The government noted that all procedures for selecting the new monarchs were duly followed, with the participation of designated kingmakers and compliance with traditional and legal requirements.
Olatunbosun added that extending the retirement age for teachers would help address staffing needs in schools, retain experienced educators, and improve overall learning outcomes.
He further stressed that the state remains committed to ensuring that schools benefit from skilled and dedicated teachers, thereby boosting educational standards and supporting excellence at all levels of learning.
