Ekiti News reports that residents of Osi-Ekiti, in the Ido-Osi Local Government Area of Ekiti State, have voiced their disapproval of purported attempts by government officials to impose a new monarch on their community.
During a peaceful protest held in the community on Saturday, residents emphasized the importance of a transparent selection process for the new Olosi of Osi-Ekiti. They expressed concerns about any potential imposition and urged Governor Biodun Oyebanji to intervene promptly to prevent a crisis.
The stool became vacant following the passing of Oba Oladiran Agunbiade on August 5, 2021. Subsequently, the Arubiojo Ruling House was approached by the government to nominate a successor to fill the vacant position.
The residents underscore their commitment to upholding due process and ensuring that the selection of their traditional ruler reflects the will and consensus of the community.
In an interview on Saturday, High Chief Oluwafemi Olayinka, the head of the kingmakers and Ejemu of Osi-Ekiti, expressed concern over attempts by certain individuals to sidestep established protocols for the selection of traditional rulers and impose their choices on the community.
The Ejemu of Osi-Ekiti, who revealed that he had participated in the selection of two traditional rulers for the community said they were done with the necessary traditional consultations with Ifa Oracle.
The nonagenarian cautioned against deviating from longstanding practices and handpicking candidates, noting that such actions could undermine peace, hinder progress, and impede the community’s development.
High Chief Olayinka advised the officials of government at both state and local government levels to give the community the opportunity to follow the normal process of picking a new Oba and forward his name to the authorities.
The Basorun of Osi-Ekiti, High Chief Sunday Ajibola, also speaking said a series of traditional consultations made across the state and beyond pointed to one of the princes as the chosen one for the vacant throne and not the person being pushed by the authority.
The Esaba of Osi-Ekiti, High Chief Ishola Famutimi, on his part advised that due process must be strictly followed to avoid a crisis in the community.