Protests erupted in Araromi-Obo Ekiti as youths and elders voiced their opposition to the proposed installation of Ebenezer Ojo as the town’s new monarch.
Reports reveal that the state government’s directive to install Ojo as the new monarch has been met with strong disapproval from the residents, who argue that he does not hail from the ruling family.
Mr. Alabi Omoniyi, a member of the Odolofin family, emphasized that Ojo belongs to the Balemo Chieftaincy Family, which falls outside the Declaration of 1982.
“We implore the Governor to halt all proceedings regarding this matter in the interest of our community’s peace,” Omoniyi asserted.
Adding to the dissent, President of Araromi-obo Progressive Council, Adedara Sunday Aderemi, highlighted that the issue is currently sub judice at the Supreme Court. He emphasized the importance of awaiting the apex court’s judgement before proceeding with the installation.
“The Belemo chieftaincy lacks a declaration, making it improper to appoint a King from the Belemo Chieftaincy in Araromi-Obo. Any appointment of a King should emanate from the ruling family,” Aderemi emphasized.
He further appealed to the Governor of Ekiti State to refrain from taking any action on the matter until the court has ruled.
Legal Adviser of Odolofin Family, Barrister Paul Akomolafe, condemned the government’s pronouncement as illegal and an act of contempt of court. He underscored that the state government’s actions would remain illegitimate until the Supreme Court delivers its final verdict.
Regarding the regency issue, Akomolafe criticized the Bureau of Chieftaincy for issuing a letter while an appeal is pending in the high court, deeming it a violation of the rule of law to install a regent from a non-ruling family.
“According to tradition, the first daughter of the monarch should assume the role of regent after the King’s passing. However, they proceeded to appoint Ogundaisi, who does not belong to the Odolofin family, which is a blatant deviation,” Akomolafe remarked.
He called upon Governor Biodun Oyebanji to amicably resolve all pending matters for the sake of peace in the community.
