In a development that has sent ripples through Osun State, Prince Clement Adesuyi Haastrup has been officially declared the new Owa Obokun of Ijesaland. His appointment, which took place on Friday, December 27, 2024, has sparked mixed reactions due to ongoing legal disputes and the dramatic nature of the selection process.
Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, in a statement, confirmed Haastrup’s elevation to the esteemed royal title, despite significant opposition and legal challenges. The 76-year-old former deputy governor of the state, who served from 1992 to 1993 under the late Isiaka Adeleke, was selected after a highly contested and controversial election held at the Ilesa West Local Government Secretariat.
Prince Haastrup, a respected figure from the Bilaro Oluodo Ruling House, emerged victorious in the selection process, overcoming stiff competition from nine other contenders. His ascension to the throne comes after the tragic passing of the previous monarch, Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran, who passed away on September 11, 2024. Haastrup will now succeed the late Oba as the 49th Owa Obokun of Ijesaland.
A Bitter Contest and Court Battles
Despite Haastrup’s success in the traditional selection process, his appointment has not been without controversy. Just earlier this month, a court order issued by Justice Adeyinka Aderibigbe of the Osun State High Court threatened to stall the entire process. The order instructed that the election of a new monarch should be postponed until a lawsuit challenging the selection was resolved.
The court’s involvement raised eyebrows, with many questioning whether Haastrup’s election could withstand legal scrutiny. However, according to Isaac Haastrup, the Public Relations Officer of the Bilaro Olu-Odo Ruling House, the monarch’s election was ratified on Friday despite the restraining order. In a statement, Isaac confirmed that Prince Clement Haastrup had emerged as the Owa-Obokun Ajimoko III, defeating his rivals and affirming his new position as the paramount ruler of Ijesaland.
“We are pleased to announce that Prince Clement Adesuyi Haastrup has emerged victorious in the selection process,” Isaac Haastrup said. “His selection follows the rightful traditions and customs of our people, and we look forward to his reign bringing peace and prosperity to Ijesaland.”
Governor Adeleke’s Approval Amidst Legal Complexity
Governor Adeleke’s approval of Haastrup’s appointment marks a significant moment in the political and traditional history of Osun State. In his official statement, Adeleke congratulated the newly appointed monarch and assured that his selection had followed all required legal and procedural steps as outlined in the Chiefs’ Law of Osun State, 2002. The governor also expressed hopes for a peaceful reign under Haastrup’s leadership.
“Following the due process outlined in our Chiefs’ Law, I am pleased to announce that Prince Clement Adesuyi Haastrup has been officially appointed as the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland,” Adeleke said. “I trust that he will lead the people of Ijesaland with wisdom and commitment, as we strive for unity and development in our state.”
However, the appointment has sparked divisions within the state. While supporters of Haastrup see his ascension as a rightful continuation of leadership, critics argue that the legal challenges to his appointment have not been fully resolved. Some factions within the Ijesa community believe that the legal uncertainties surrounding his election need to be addressed before his reign can be fully endorsed.
A History of Political and Traditional Influence
Prince Clement Haastrup’s rise to power as the new Owa Obokun represents more than just a victory for the Bilaro Oluodo Ruling House. It is also a reflection of Haastrup’s long-standing involvement in both politics and traditional leadership. As a former deputy governor of Osun State, he has navigated the complex political landscape of the region and is widely regarded as a man of influence.
His political ties, especially his association with the Adeleke family, have played a pivotal role in his selection as the new monarch. While some may view this as a political appointment, others argue that Haastrup’s experience and commitment to the people of Ijesaland make him a fitting candidate to succeed the late Oba Aromolaran.
“It is a momentous occasion for Ijesaland,” said Adebayo Olatunji, a prominent elder in the region. “Prince Haastrup has a deep understanding of the challenges our community faces, and his leadership will undoubtedly make a difference.”
Peaceful Coexistence and Traditional Leadership
Despite the political drama surrounding his appointment, the people of Ijesaland are hopeful that Haastrup’s leadership will bring much-needed stability to the region. Traditional leadership plays a vital role in the social and cultural fabric of Nigeria, and the Owa Obokun is one of the most revered positions in the Yoruba monarchy system.
In a public statement, Governor Adeleke urged the people of Ijesaland to support the new monarch, stressing the importance of peace and unity during this transitional period. “It is crucial that we come together as a community and give our new leaders the support they need to succeed,” the governor said. “In our diversity, we must always seek peace and unity.”
As Prince Haastrup assumes the mantle of leadership, his supporters are optimistic that he will foster cooperation and development in the region, focusing on areas such as education, infrastructure, and social welfare.
