Ekiti community protests alleged plot to impose monarch
By Boye Oyeyemi –
Tension is rising in Ijesa-Isu Ekiti, Ikole Local Government Area, over claims that Mr David Oluwasegun Ateji is being imposed as the community’s next monarch.
Residents alleged that traditional procedures for selecting a new Obanla are being influenced by “some political actors,” threatening the peace and unity of the town.
The community accused Governor Biodun Oyebanji, former deputy governor Chief Paul Olatunde Alabi, and Kajola LDA Chairman Hon. Ojo Ajayi of attempting to manipulate the succession process for political gain.
Elder Omoyele Ajobiewe, speaking for the community, said the alleged interference has created fear among residents. He added that some chiefs and kingmakers were reportedly pressured to endorse a candidate backed by political figures.
Ajobiewe claimed Chief Alabi coerced kingmakers into signing a recommendation for a single candidate and accused Chief Caleb Kehinde Isinkaye of exploiting the ill health of the head of the kingmakers to secure signatures from elderly members.
He warned that imposing a candidate would set a dangerous precedent, undermine public confidence in government and traditional systems, and could spark long-term communal crises.
When contacted, the Commissioner for Information, Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun, dismissed the allegations as baseless, stressing that the governor respects traditional institutions and would not interfere in the Obanla succession process.
