Ekiti community seeks Ooni’s intervention as Alara stool remains vacant

By Boye Oyeyemi

The people of Aramoko-Ekiti have appealed to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, to intervene in the prolonged selection of a new Alara, urging Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji to allow the kingmakers to conclude the process.

The community said the traditional stool had remained vacant for about six months following the suspension of the selection exercise, disrupting cultural activities and raising concerns about growing restiveness among youths.

The appeal was contained in a statement jointly signed by the Head of Kingmakers, Chief Asao, and the Secretary, Chief Sajowa, on behalf of the Alara-in-Council and the people of Aramoko-Ekiti.

The community urged the Ooni, whom it described as a custodian of Yoruba culture and tradition, to use his influence to persuade the governor to allow the kingmakers to resume and complete the process in line with established customs and relevant laws.

According to the statement, the selection process began in April 2026 under the Alara of Aramoko Chieftaincy Declaration and the Ekiti State Chieftaincy Law. Three princes were shortlisted following an Ifa divination exercise conducted through Baba Araba Elebuibon.

The statement added that voting by the 12 kingmakers ended in a six-six deadlock, making a second round necessary to determine the successful candidate. However, the state Commissioner for Chieftaincy Affairs postponed the exercise, which has remained suspended since then.

The community also alleged that its letters to the state government seeking a resolution had yet to receive a response, leaving the kingmakers unable to complete the selection. It said the absence of a monarch had also prevented the observance of some traditional festivals and rites requiring the Alara’s presence.

Citing Aramoko-Ekiti’s historical and spiritual ties with Ile-Ife, the community expressed hope that the Ooni’s intervention would help resolve the impasse peacefully and enable the kingmakers to resume the process without further delay.