In Ifon-Orolu, Osun State, a group of women staged a protest against the selection process of the new Olufon of Ifon, calling for adherence to the 1979 Chieftaincy declaration. They argued that the government had bypassed legal procedures and urged the utilization of the 1979 declaration, upheld by a court, in selecting the next traditional ruler.
Asserting the significance of tradition, the protesters emphasized the rotation among the five ruling houses, highlighting the Odunolu house’s rightful turn to produce the next Olufon. They cautioned against any imposition of candidates, citing potential chaos and security concerns within the community if such actions were pursued.
Princess Salmot Adenijis noted Ifon’s traditional selection process for its kings and urged the state government to honor that tradition. Another protester, Princess Folashade Oyedele, emphasized the community’s commitment to peace while disputing the legitimacy of a letter issued to the Morounfolu ruling house, citing ongoing legal proceedings and community tensions.
IMAGE: Vanguard