AKURE KINGSHIP CRISIS: GOVERNOR AIYEDATIWA INTERVENES IN IRALEPO-DEJI OF AKURE DISPUTE

AKURE KINGSHIP CRISIS: GOVERNOR AIYEDATIWA INTERVENES IN IRALEPO-DEJI OF AKURE DISPUTE

By Adeola Shittu 

The kingship tussle between the Iralepo of Isinkan and the Deji of Akure has taken a dramatic turn, prompting Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, to step in and call for restraint. The ongoing dispute, which has sparked legal battles and community tensions, revolves around the status of the Iralepo stool and its autonomy within the Akure Kingdom.

ORIGINS OF THE DISPUTE

The town of Isinkan, located within Akure South Local Government Area, has historically maintained its traditional leadership, with the Iralepo seen as an independent ruler by his people. However, the Deji of Akure asserts that the Iralepo is a subordinate chief under Akure Kingdom, a claim that has long been a source of contention.

The crisis escalated in October 2021 following the demise of the former Iralepo, High Chief Olu Ojo. In a controversial move, the Deji of Akure installed Chief Henry Gbenga Adeyeye as the new Iralepo, a decision rejected by the Isinkan kingmakers. Instead, the community, with the backing of the Ondo State Government, elected Prince Olugbenga Ojo as Oba of Isinkan, officially crowning him as Oba Oluwagbemiga Ajimokunola Olofin-Adimula (Arulewolasi III).

This led to a legal battle between the Deji of Akure and the Iralepo-in-Council over the legitimacy of the Iralepo stool as an independent kingship.

Court Rulings and the Deji’s Response

The matter was first heard in the Ondo State High Court, which in March 2022 ruled in favor of Oba Ojo, recognizing the Iralepo as an Oba separate from the Deji’s authority. However, on February 21, 2025, the Court of Appeal in Akure overturned this ruling, declaring that:

The Iralepo remains a chief under Akure Kingdom and is not an independent monarch.

The Ondo State Government’s recognition of the Iralepo as an Oba was unlawful.

Following this judgment, the Deji of Akure wasted no time in asserting his authority, suspending Oba Ojo and officially installing High Chief Gbenga Henry Adeyeye as the new Iralepo. The Deji also presented Adeyeye with a certificate of office, a move that has further deepened the crisis.

GOVERNOR AIYEDATIWA CALLS FOR PEACE

In response to the escalating tensions, Governor Aiyedatiwa addressed the issue during a thanksgiving service at RCCG Jesus House, Akure. The Governor emphasized the need for due process and urged all parties to allow the legal system to take its course.

"We must accommodate others and obey the rules and regulations of this state," Aiyedatiwa stated, directly addressing the Deji and the people of Isinkan. "Even when there are court judgments, the other parties have their rights to appeal up to the Supreme Court."

The Governor’s remarks were seen as a subtle warning against actions that could incite further conflict. His intervention is expected to calm rising tensions and ensure that the matter is settled legally rather than through traditional power struggles.

Reactions from Isinkan and Akure

The Iralepo-in-Council has rejected the Deji’s claim, vowing to challenge the Appeal Court ruling at the Supreme Court. In a strongly worded statement, High Chief Kayode Oluyi, the Olisa of Isinkan, said:

The Deji of Akure lacks the authority to suspend an Oba he did not install.

Oba Olugbenga Ojo remains the legitimate Iralepo of Isinkan.

The community will not accept the imposition of a ruler not chosen by its kingmakers.

Meanwhile, supporters of the Deji of Akure argue that the Appeal Court ruling has settled the matter and that Isinkan must accept its position within Akure Kingdom.

What Happens Next?

With Governor Aiyedatiwa’s intervention, stakeholders are hopeful that a peaceful resolution will be reached. However, with Isinkan kingmakers preparing to take the case to the Supreme Court and the Deji asserting his control, the crisis is far from over.

Observers believe that the final ruling from Nigeria’s highest court will determine whether the Iralepo stool will remain an independent kingship or continue as a chieftaincy under the Deji of Akure.

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