Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has ordered a strict security operation to prevent any illegal attempt to take over the Ikirun palace, following reports of an alleged plot by some individuals to breach the palace. The governor’s directive was aimed at maintaining peace in Ikirun amid ongoing legal disputes over the Akirun stool.
The warning was contained in a statement released on Wednesday by the governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed. According to the statement, Governor Adeleke directed security agencies to immediately secure the palace and ensure that no unauthorized person gains entry.
“The palace remains sealed until the conclusion of ongoing litigations on the Akirun stool. Any violation of this directive would attract sanctions,” Governor Adeleke said, emphasizing that the matter remains under judicial consideration.
The governor warned that any prince or individual found to be involved in any plot to occupy the palace illegally would be held accountable under the law. He cautioned against any form of self-help that could disturb the peace of Ikirun, stating that the government would not tolerate actions capable of escalating tension in the community.
“Any attempt to disturb the peace of Ikirun will not be tolerated by our government. The Akirun stool is a matter before the court, and until the matter is resolved, no resort to self-help will be tolerated,” Governor Adeleke added.
He explained that the palace had only been briefly opened recently for environmental clearing and maintenance, aimed at preserving the historic structure. The governor clarified that the access did not constitute a reopening of the palace but was limited strictly to cleaning and safeguarding the monument.
“I restored peace to Ikirun Community by an executive order, and it is only through my executive order that the palace can be re-opened,” Governor Adeleke said, highlighting the temporary nature of the recent palace access.
The Akirun stool has been vacant since the passing of the late Akirun of Ikirun, Oba AbdulRauf Olawale Adedeji II, who died at the age of 78 in February 2021. The demise of the monarch triggered a succession process that is governed by customary law and chieftaincy regulations.
Following the death of the late Oba, disputes arose among contending princes and ruling houses over the rightful successor to the throne. These disagreements have resulted in multiple litigations that are currently before the courts.
The Osun State Government has consistently intervened in the dispute to prevent a breakdown of law and order in the community. One of the measures taken was the sealing of the Ikirun palace, pending the resolution of the court cases. This step was aimed at preventing any unilateral action by interested parties that could escalate tensions in the town.
The succession dispute linked to the demise of the late Akirun has remained a sensitive issue in Ikirun. Traditional institutions and ruling houses in the town have repeatedly been urged to respect the judicial process and avoid actions that could undermine peace.
Governor Adeleke’s directive underscores the state government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that disputes over traditional chieftaincy titles do not destabilize communities. Authorities stressed that any attempt to forcibly occupy the palace would be treated as a violation of law and order.
Security agencies in the state have been directed to deploy personnel to Ikirun to monitor the palace and prevent any illegal access. All efforts are expected to be maintained until the court delivers a final ruling on the rightful occupant of the Akirun stool.
Community leaders and stakeholders have welcomed the government’s intervention, noting that the palace remains a symbol of unity and authority in Ikirun. They emphasized the need for all contending parties to exercise patience and allow the courts to determine the rightful successor.
Historically, the Ikirun palace is not only the seat of the Akirun but also serves as the center of cultural heritage and governance in the town. Any attempt to take over the palace illegally is seen as a direct challenge to both traditional authority and state law.
In addition to sealing the palace, Governor Adeleke has assured residents that the state government will continue to engage with stakeholders to ensure peace and stability. The government has appealed to all princes, ruling houses, and community members to respect the rule of law and avoid any form of self-help that could ignite conflict.
The directive comes at a time when the Osun State Government has intensified efforts to maintain peace in areas affected by succession disputes. By deploying security personnel and issuing clear warnings, the government aims to prevent incidents that could undermine the peaceful coexistence of residents in Ikirun.
Governor Adeleke’s statement serves as a reminder that while traditional institutions hold cultural and social importance, disputes over succession must be resolved within the framework of the law. The government has made it clear that no individual or group has the authority to take the law into their hands.
As the court continues to hear cases regarding the Akirun stool, all eyes remain on the state government and security agencies to ensure that peace is maintained and that the Ikirun palace is protected from illegal intrusion.
Leave a Reply