Over the weekend, a contentious decision made by warrant chiefs within Osun State Secretariat, Abere, sparked uproar as Prince Ademola Makinde was selected as the new Owa of Igbajo, replacing Oba Adegboyega Famodun. Tajudeen Lawal, the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, issued a statement asserting that the Governor Ademola Adeleke-led administration faced difficulties garnering support from the genuine kingmakers of Igbajo for the purported selection process.
Lawal further alleged the recruitment of five non-indigenous individuals to masquerade as kingmakers during the selection, casting doubt on the legitimacy of the appointment.
Reacting to the situation, Oba Famodun expressed his dismay at the actions taken by the state government, labeling them as unfortunate. He reiterated his stance as the rightful king of Igbajo land, asserting that he would maintain his position until a court of competent jurisdiction ruled otherwise. The assertion underscores the deep-rooted tensions surrounding the selection process and the conflicting claims to the throne.
In response to the controversy, the Osun State Government, represented by Commissioner for Information Kolapo Alimi, defended its actions, stating that they were conducted within the confines of the law and tradition, and purportedly in the best interest of the affected community.
However, this statement is likely to further fuel the debate over the legitimacy of the selection process and the role of the state government in local traditional affairs.
IMAGE: Western post
