Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State – History is being made in the ancient town of Akungba-Akoko as Princess Adeyemi Faith Ajimo, 25, has been officially appointed as the Regent of Akungba-Akoko. This significant development follows the recent passing of the town’s revered traditional ruler, Oba Isaac Sunday Adeyeye Ajimo III, on March 3, 2025.

Princess Ajimo, a university graduate and the first daughter of the late monarch, hails from the Ole Ruling House. Her appointment was not a unilateral decision but rather a unanimous confirmation by both the royal family and the traditional council. The Alale Council of Chiefs, comprising high chiefs from various quarters of Akoko, formally communicated this crucial appointment to the Chairman of Akoko South West Local Government, seeking government recognition and support for the young regent in her new and pivotal role.

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This transitional period marks a significant moment for Akungba-Akoko, with many eyes on Princess Ajimo as she steps into a leadership position. The news has resonated widely, particularly on platforms like LinkedIn, where it has sparked engaging discussions about traditional leadership and the role of women in such capacities.

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Senator Babafemi Ojudu, CON, a former Senator (2011-2015), weighed in with a thought-provoking question: “Can we ask ourselves why it’s acceptable for a woman to serve as a temporary ruler when the king is no more, but not acceptable for her to rule permanently? We need to begin interrogating these cultural norms. I know many women who would govern our towns and villages far better than some of the men currently in power.”

His comments highlight a broader societal discussion about gender roles in traditional leadership and the potential for long-term female rule.

Echoing sentiments of progress, Toyin Joe-Bassey, a Wellness, Diet & Lifestyle Coach, remarked, “This is interesting and congratulations to her and the Akungba-Akoko kingdom. I think this is a progressive step as we know Africa’s patriarchal leadership order. I do hope the men in that community will accord the honor due to the throne being occupied by a female. I pray that her rule will bring transformation to Akungba-Akoko.”

However, not all comments saw the appointment as a permanent shift. Akinloluwa Afonja, an MScPA, CPPM, PMEC, clarified in response to Joe-Bassey, “It’s actually a temporary position just to hold the throne pending the time a New (male) King is enthroned.” This clarifies the traditional practice of a regent filling the void until a new monarch is selected and enthroned.

Regardless of the temporary nature of her role, Princess Adeyemi Faith Ajimo’s ascension to the regency is undoubtedly a significant event. It brings to the forefront important questions about tradition, modernity, and the evolving landscape of leadership within Nigerian communities. As Akungba-Akoko navigates this transitional phase, all eyes will be on Princess Ajimo and the impact of her leadership.