A civil society group, World Institute for Peace(WIP) has urged Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke to reinstate three suspended monarchs in the state and to stop playing politics with Yoruba tradition.
Adeleke had recently slammed suspension on three monarchs – Akirun of Ikirun, Owa of Igbajo, and Aree of Iree – appointed by immediate past governor, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola at the twilight of his administration in 2022 alleging that the installation of the monarchs did not follow due process.
In a statement on Friday, WIP’s Executive Director, Lamina Omotoyosi described Adeleke’s action as a misplacement of duty stressing that it is the role of the judiciary to nullify the installation process of a king.
Omotoyosi said: “There are several cases of kingship tussle in court before Adeleke was sworn-in as governor including that of his hometown, Timi of Ede who celebrated 15 years on the throne, Ataoja of Osogbo. No past governor in the state has ever dethroned or suspended a king due to the installation process. Adeleke should learn from history and let the judiciary decide.
“The governor ought to appeal to the aggrieved parties in the affected communities to allow court processes and beef up security apparatus in the areas and give warning to anyone who may want to cause trouble. Adeleke displayed executive power in the manner that his action can only be described as a sentiment.
“Adeleke should simply know that those kings were installed within the context of the constitutional right of the former governor. He should stop playing politics with Yoruba tradition. The governor should allow for the reinstating of the monarchs concerned. Be it as it may, it’s highly ridiculous for the government of Osun State, the cradle of Yoruba land, to interface with the construct of its traditional rulers”.
