Ekiti State Government in an effort to address the ongoing kingship dispute in Awo-Ekiti has instructed the Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area to promptly release a sum of N6.5 million, representing four years’ worth of salary arrears for chiefs in the community.
Deputy Governor Mrs. Monisade Afuye emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting traditional institutions and ensuring the welfare of local leader
During a peace parley in her office, Afuye acknowledged a petition from chiefs accusing the Alawo of Awo Ekiti, Oba Abdulazeez Olaleye, of excluding them from salary payments since 2019 due to their opposition to his ascension to the throne.
This complaint led to the withholding of all chiefs’ salaries by the Local Government. The deputy governor directed the immediate release of the funds, urging unity and emphasizing the need for peace in the community.
Afuye also mandated the local council to investigate allegations of market relocation raised by Oba Abdulazeez and provide recommendations on the matter. While acknowledging the opposition of some chiefs to the present monarch, Afuye called for payment pending the resolution of the matter by the Supreme Court.
She appealed to Oba Abdulazeez to foster unity and peace in Awo Ekiti, emphasizing that Governor Oyebanji seeks to avoid conflicts in any part of the stat
In response, Oba Abdulazeez expressed willingness to comply with the government’s directives and reiterated his commitment to peace. He lamented the challenges posed by certain chiefs running a parallel government and impeding development in the town.
Despite his efforts to extend an olive branch, Oba Abdulazeez highlighted the reluctance of some chiefs to engage in reconciliation, citing issues such as restricted access to the palace and improper market activities during his reign
IMAGE: Naija Gist
