APC Accuses Osun Governor Adeleke of Promoting Crisis in Monarch Selection

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State has accused the administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke of needlessly promoting a crisis where none existed.

The party also criticized Governor Adeleke for allegedly meddling with the selection of legally installed monarchs in Iree and Igbajo towns.

During the twilight of the Adegboyega Oyetola administration, Adegboyega Famodun and Raphael Oluponle were installed as the Owa of Igbajo and Aree of Iree respectively.

However, upon assuming office in November 2022, Governor Adeleke suspended the processes that led to the installation of these monarchs via an Executive Order.

In January 2024, a review panel constituted by the state government nullified the processes and directed a fresh selection process through a White Paper.

Recently, the state government approved the appointment of Muritala Oyelakin as the Aree of Iree.

Reports indicate that hoodlums and hunters invaded the venue of the traditional seclusion (Ipebi) at Odofin’s compound in Iree, breaking down doors.

Additionally, sources within the state government revealed that Dr. Ademola Makinde has been selected as the new Owa of Igbajo, although this selection has not been officially announced.

In a statement by its chairman, Tajudeen Lawal, the APC expressed disappointment, stating that the appointments of both monarchs were in accordance with the traditions and customs of the communities.

Lawal criticized the government for allegedly reselecting a monarch for a community in the Governor’s Office and using individuals who are not from the community as “warrant chiefs.”

The APC condemned what it described as the desecration of the culture and customs of the ancient towns, urging an end to the “ridiculing” of Osun’s traditional and academic institutions.

The party accused Governor Adeleke of being a “willing tool” in the hands of disgruntled political actors, whom it claims are interested in causing turmoil in Igbajo.