Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has officially presented the staff of office to Oba Clement Adesuyi Haastrup as the Owa Obokun of Ijesa, a move that has triggered a wave of controversy among prominent royal families in the region.
The ceremony, held on Sunday, marked the coronation of Oba Haastrup, who was elected just two days earlier by the kingmakers. The governor wasted no time in endorsing the new monarch, emphasizing his role in fostering unity and development in Ijesa land. However, dissenting voices from the Ofokutu and Fajemisin royal families, key factions of the Bilaro Olu-Odo Ruling House, have cast a shadow over the celebrations.
A Swift but Contested Appointment
Oba Haastrup’s rapid ascension to the throne was met with skepticism and anger from some quarters. The Ofokutu and Fajemisin royal families allege that the selection process was fraught with irregularities and government interference.
“The process blatantly disregarded the sacred tradition of selecting the Owa Obokun of Ijesa,” lamented Prince Adetoyese Adegbohungbe, Secretary of the Ofokutu Royal Family. “This is not just a compromise but a desecration of our noble heritage. The fact that this was done while an existing court case on the matter is still pending is an affront to justice and tradition.”
Similarly, Olufemi Fajemisin, representing the Fajemisin family, condemned the selection as “inherently flawed.” He accused both the local and state governments of imposing a candidate without due regard for Ijesa customs, declaring the appointment “utterly unacceptable.”
Adeleke’s Call for Unity
During the presentation ceremony, Governor Adeleke congratulated Oba Haastrup and appealed to all Ijesa people to embrace peace and development.
“Now that the time of competition is over and you have become the father of all, I urge you to rally around all citizens of Ijesa land for the progress of the area and the state at large,” Adeleke said.
The governor also highlighted the potential of the new monarch to attract investments and development projects to Ijesa, urging him to use his extensive connections to foster growth. “This government cannot do it alone,” Adeleke added. “It requires the collective effort of every son and daughter of this land.”
A Divided House
Despite the governor’s optimistic tone, the discontent among royal families remains palpable. The Ofokutu and Fajemisin families have not only rejected the new Owa Obokun but also vowed to challenge his installation through all available legal means.
In a joint statement, the families called on stakeholders to uphold the integrity of the Ijesa tradition. “This imposition violates the principles of transparency, lawfulness, and respect for our customs,” their statement read. “We will pursue every legal avenue to defend our rights and restore the honor and pride of the Ijesa people.”
The dissenting families argue that the hurried process undermines the credibility of the kingmakers and diminishes the respect traditionally accorded to the Owa Obokun throne.
Historical Significance of the Throne
The Owa Obokun of Ijesa land is not just a traditional ruler but a revered symbol of Ijesa identity and history. The title traces its roots to ancient Yoruba traditions, with each Owa expected to act as a custodian of culture and a unifying force.
Historically, the selection process for the Owa Obokun is steeped in rituals and consultations that ensure legitimacy and respect for lineage. The latest appointment, however, has been marred by allegations of manipulation and haste.
A Familiar Pattern?
This is not the first time controversies have surrounded the selection of traditional rulers in Osun State. Analysts point out that disputes over royal appointments often highlight deeper issues of political interference and inadequate mechanisms for conflict resolution in chieftaincy matters.
Observers believe the speed of Oba Haastrup’s appointment reflects the state government’s desire to resolve the leadership vacuum swiftly. However, critics argue that such haste risks alienating key stakeholders and undermining the sanctity of the process.
A Test for Adeleke’s Leadership
Governor Adeleke’s handling of this crisis could have far-reaching implications for his administration. While some praise his decisiveness in installing a new Owa Obokun, others caution that alienating influential royal families could spark prolonged disputes.
The governor has called for reconciliation, urging the aggrieved families to focus on collective progress. However, with lawsuits reportedly in the works, it remains unclear
