The Ekiti State Government has taken a firm stand against moves to reverse the selection of Prince Adebomi Babalola as the new Alararomi of Araromi Ekiti in Ijero Local Government Area. The government has directed the kingmakers to submit the Oba-elect’s name within seven days for the commencement of the installation process, in line with the Ekiti State Chieftaincy Law.
Deputy Governor Monisade Afuye, addressing the town’s stakeholders, made a passionate plea to the kingmakers to desist from disrupting a transparent and straightforward process that resulted in Prince Babalola’s selection. The Deputy Governor emphasized the importance of upholding the integrity of the selection process, which was verified through Ifa consultation that led to Prince Babalola’s emergence from the Odimulele royal dynasty.
The Deputy Governor, as relayed by her media assistant Victor Ogunje, refuted the claims of process hijacking by some kingmakers, citing the transparency evident in the video recording of the selection process. She reiterated the government’s commitment to peace and unity, cautioning against upsetting the concluded process to prevent discord in the town.
“I appeal to the kingmakers not to derail the process due to personal preferences. The non-emergence of your candidate does not discredit the validity of the selection process. It is imperative to allow this credible process to prevail for the progress and harmonious development of the town,” Mrs. Afuye urged.
Commending the Ajero of Ijero Ekiti, Oba Joseph Adebayo Adewole, for his insightful counsel during the selection, Mrs. Afuye also lauded the council for maintaining a hands-off approach, underscoring the government’s respect for the traditional institution in Ekiti.
Oba Adewole, in alignment with the government, adamantly opposed calls for process reversal, affirming the legitimacy and transparency of the process that led to Prince Babalola’s emergence. The first-class monarch cautioned the kingmakers about the potential repercussions of derailing the selection process.
Furthermore, the government has directed the Araromi Obo Ekiti kingmakers to initiate the installation process for Prince Ebenezer Ojo as the new Elemoba of Araromi Obo, affirming the readiness of the kingmakers to formally present the Oba-elect for state government recognition.
The decision of the Deputy Governor to oversee the recognition and installation process underscores the government’s commitment to upholding credible chieftaincy practices in Ekiti State.
