The Arimoro Royal Family in Ijeshaland, Osun State, has raised serious objections to the appointment of Prince Adesuyi Haastrup as the Owa Obokun-elect, labeling the selection process held on December 27 as a “charade” that undermines Ijesha traditions and exhibits a gross abuse of judicial proceedings.
Prince Haastrup, representing the Ajimoko Royal Family, was chosen during a meeting conducted by the kingmakers at the Ilesa West Local Government Secretariat. His selection received the necessary approval from the state governor, Ademola Adeleke.
In a statement delivered by Prince Adegoke Arimoro, the Global Coordinator of the Arimoro Royal Family, they vehemently rejected the process and warned of impending legal action. The statement emphasized that the selection violated an existing order from the Ilesha High Court, which had barred the kingmakers, the governor, and any involved parties from proceeding with the selection of the Owa Obokun until a comprehensive review of a filed suit by the Ofokutu Royal lineage against Haastrup was concluded.
The Arimoro Royal Family condemned the actions of the Ijesha kingmakers as “ignoble and sacrilegious,” urging Ijesha indigenes worldwide to unite against the imposition of a new Owa and to uphold the dignity and integrity of their heritage.
“This shocking announcement is a blatant violation of due process, with a candidate imposed upon the Ijesha people. We categorically reject this purported Owa Obokun and will pursue all lawful avenues to have the selection nullified,” the family asserted.
The statement further criticized the selection method, highlighting that the process involved a limited vote from five out of 13 kingmakers and was supported by a heavy security presence, questioning the legitimacy of such an approach.
Arimoro also expressed concerns regarding financial burdens placed on aspirants, namely a N10 million development levy, and pointed out that crucial traditions, including the involvement of the Ifa Oracle, were disregarded in this process.
The swift endorsement of Prince Haastrup by Governor Adeleke was described as evidence of an unholy alliance between certain kingmakers and government officials.
In a press conference, Prince Michael Adewale Arimoro implored all stakeholders to reflect on the implications of their actions, stressing the importance of adhering to traditional values and the judicial system as a framework for a transparent and lawful selection process.
He advocated for unity among the community to protect their heritage and uphold the sanctity of their customs, emphasizing that the ongoing situation signals a significant turning point for the Ijesha royalty.
This ongoing dispute exemplifies deep-rooted tensions within Ijeshaland regarding royal succession and highlights the necessity for a lawful and respectful approach to leadership selection in the region.
