Ekiti residents reject Prince Ateji as new Obanla, allege illegal appointment

By Boye Oyeyemi

Indigenes of Ijesa-Isu Ekiti in Ikole Local Government Area of Ekiti State have rejected the appointment of Prince David Ateji as the new Obanla, while accusing the state government of contravening existing procedures guiding the selection process as contained in the 2012 chieftaincy declaration.

Speaking on behalf of the community, Elder Omoyele Ajobiewe faulted the state government’s declaration, stating that the selection process only recognized the Ojikutu Ruling House as eligible to produce candidates while declaring that the stool was not rotational.

While presenting his argument, he maintained that the declaration was duly gazetted and remained legally binding, noting that it had neither been amended nor set aside by any competent court.

Ajobiewe further alleged that qualified contenders from other ruling houses were excluded for an ‘unrecognized candidate’ to emerge, claiming that consultation with the Ifa oracle, which is considered a vital traditional requirement, was not properly conducted, thereby casting doubt on the legitimacy of the exercise.

Citing the lawsuit marked HCL/33/2025, Elder Ajobiewe disclosed that it was filed in December 2025, and is still pending in court, hence the state government’s appointment can be described as a disregard for due process and the rule of law.

The state government, however, denied any irregularity, insisting that the approval of the Obanla-elect followed established legal procedures and was based on recommendations submitted in accordance with chieftaincy laws in the state.