…WARNS FORMER LOCAL GOVERNMENT CHAIRMAN AGAINST HIS ANTICS AND CUNNING AGENDA OF INSTALLING AN OCTOGENARIAN PRINCE AT ALL COST.
The Agunbe Development Circle (ADC), a leading and respected organization dedicated to promoting justice, peace, unity, and good governance in Ikirun and its environs, wishes to commend Osun State Government under the leadership of His Excellency, Governor Ademola Nurudeen Jackson Adeleke for its resolute steps in ensuring the rule of law prevails in the ongoing Ikirun monarchial dispute.
We are happy to say, after diligent observation and careful evaluation that our group position aligns with Osun State Government’s commitment to resolving the impasse associated with Ikirun traditional dispute through established legal procedures and constitutional processes as contained in the findings and resolutions of the White Paper released by the Government on the subject matter eleven months ago.
ADC lauds the efforts of Osun State Government in upholding the principles of fair hearing, transparency and justice as they work towards restoring stability to Ikirun’s traditional leadership. By adhering to the laid-down procedures and respecting the rotational arrangement that has been a cornerstone of the town’s governance, the Government has demonstrated its commitment to resolving the dispute within the confines of the law, without bias or manipulation. Hence, it is commendable.
Recall that Ikirun Obaship matter was one of the Obaship matters looked into by the Hon. Bunmi Jenyo led Chieftaincy Committee to resolve the crises in the towns affected in Osun State then. The outcome of the committee was later made known to the public by Osun State Government through White Paper where it says on Ikirun matter that ” On the disputed Akirun stool, the White Paper directed that the parties await the outcome of the case before the Court of Appeal. And that the stool remains vacant
Recently as well and to be precise 11th of November, 2024 His Lordship Justice M.O. Agboola equally upheld the decision of the State of Government on the matter for certain reasons in the action instituted by Chief Rasheed Adekola Toogun (Odofin of Ikirun) & ORS in suit HOS/08/2024 to challenge the decision of the State Government on the matter. In his Judgement, His Lordship, Justice M.O. Agboola dismissed the case and revealed that “In viewing that invitation objectively, the Court considers the established facts, as found above, that the installation of Prince Akadiri led to a breakdown of law and orders in Ikirun, and a life was lost and properties were destroyed. This was also noted in the White Paper… His Lordship went further by saying the power of a governor to institute a panel of inquiry is recognized as part of his executive powers both under S. 25 of Commission of Inquiry LAW, Cap 2, Law of Osun State, in any case which in his opinion an inquiry would be for the public welfare. Also cited S. 36 (2) of 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended
However, Agunbe Development Circle expresses serious concern over the reported actions of the former Ifelodun Local Government Chairman, whose recent maneuvers and antics suggest an attempt to install a monarch that does not conform with the established rotational arrangement of our town. Good people of Ikirun is alarmed by the Chairman alleged attempts to manipulate the situation to install an octogenarian Prince at all costs which is not in line with Ikirun traditional succession framework and arrangements.
The attempt will not only affect the said Chairman politically because we have seen his handwriting on the wall and his antics will equally soil the name of the State Government that issued the White Paper if he is not quickly checked
We strongly caution the former Chairman in question against any further attempts to subvert the process for personal or political gain. The people of Ikirun have long embraced and ready to adhere to a rotational system that ensures fairness and equal representation for all the ruling houses in our town. Any action to undermine this tradition will not only be divisive but will also erode the long-standing peace and unity that the town has enjoyed.
The Agunbe Development Circle further urges all stakeholders, including political leaders, traditional authorities, and the general public, to continue to support the Osun State Government’s legal efforts to resolve our monarchial dispute in line with our gazzete and instrumentality of law. We implore all parties to exercise patience, respect the rule of law, and allow for due process to take its course. Let us put aside personal ambitions for the greater good of Ikirun, a town known for its rich history and harmonious coexistence.
In conclusion, the Agunbe Development Circle reaffirms its confidence in the Government of His Excellency, Governor Ademola Nurudeen Jackson Adeleke commitment to ensuring that the process of selecting the next monarch in Ikirun is free from undue influence, upholds the rule of law, and reflects the will of the people.
Long live Ikirun Agunbe,
Long live Osun State,
Long live Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Signed;
Surv. Timothy Olawale
Chairman.
Barr. Kamal O. Oyerinde
General Secretary.
