The Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has installed the new Eesalokun of Ilukuno Ekiti, Ijero Local Government Area, Oba Gbenga Adebowale Agbaje-Gorite, with a steely resolve neither to bend, nor manipulate the laws in the selection of any traditional ruler.
Speaking pointedly, Oyebanji assured that all the monarchs that will be installed will undertake all the traditional, cultural and legal crucibles, to entrench respect for the traditional institution and foster peace across all the towns.
Oba Agbaje-Gorite, who hails from Aulodobiosupa royal dynasty, with the last reign dated back to over 450 years, succeeded Oba Adebayo Jegede from Okeoro Ruling House, who died on 14th November, 2024.
In his address during the fanfare and colourful traditional ceremony, held at Ilukuno Ekiti, on Saturday, Oyebanji, represented by his Deputy, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, said he won’t manipulate rules to suit convenience in any matter that has close affinity with tradition.
Oyebanji said his administration has demonstrated respect for the traditional institution since inception, by retraining from undue imposition and armtwisting of kingmakers in selection of Obas, assuring that the trend will continue to preserve the sanctity of royalty.
Congratulating the community on the epochal event and the epic battles they won to accomplish the success, Oyebanji posited that the installation of Oba Agbaje-Gorite was not an accident of time, but a product of unwavering faithfulness to tradition.
Regaling the community with the trajectory of the succession battle, the governor disclosed that for over four centuries, the Aulodobiosupa Ruling House waited for its rightful turn, saying that wait could have ended in bitterness or crisis, but ended in this remarkable success the town is celebrating.
Disclosing the enormity of respect his government has for the traditional rulers, Oyebanji stated that he won’t rewrite history to suit convenience, nor manipulate chieftaincy declarations under pressure to impose any monarch for partisan and other primordial reasons.
“Instead of imposing or bending rules, I will listen and stand firm where the law is clear. This is the essence of people-centered governance. The peace that has prevailed in Ilukuno Ekiti since this appointment was approved is a powerful testimony. It shows that when leadership is trusted, stability exist in communities.
“Your Royal Highness, as you assume this exalted role, it is important to note that this office is not only a position of honour but also of responsibility. The people will look up to you for guidance, peace, justice, and unity.
“The Government also expects your partnership in the collective effort to maintain order, promote cultural heritage, and support the development of our state. Kabiyesi, Let it be clearly stated that there are no winners and no losers. You are to please extend a hand of fellowship to your co-contestants to move Ilukuno Ekiti to a greater height.
“I say a big congratulations to you Kabiyesi, Oba Agbaje Gbenga the Eesalokun of Ilukuno – Ekiti. I also commend the good people of Ilukuno Ekiti for their cooperation, patience, and commitment to peace throughout this process”.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Chieftaincy and Home Affairs, Hon Ojo Atibioke, said Oba Agbaje-Gorite became a candidate, following a stiff selection procedure undertook by the kingmakers, in sync with the customs, tradition and culture of Ilukuno Ekiti.
Atibioke added that the installation, was in alignment with
the Ekiti State Chiefs Law and the process was competitive , transparent and orderly, saying the monarch was given a clean bill out of the three contenders that indicated interests.
“The process was not but with challenges. Many petitions were written to our Ministry disputing the eligibility of the Aulodobiosupa ruling house despite its clear recognition in the chieftaincy declarations.
“But the government remained firm. We chose law over sentiment, justice over pressure and fairness over convenience”.
Appealing to the community to vote massively for Oyebanji in the June 20 poll, the Chairman of Ijero Local Government, Hon Abayomi Folowosele, expressed elation over the occupation of the vacant stool, commending the state government for approving the appointment expeditiously and without delay.
Folowosele, who clarified that massive votes for the governor would afford the community limitless opportunity to enjoy more democracy dividends from the government, commended the community for midwifing a peaceful selection that produced the monarch.
“Let me tell you that you can only develop when you have unity and live in peace. I appeal to you, cooperate with Kabiyesi to move this town forward. I congratulate you on this occasion and pray that you will witness peace under his reign”.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Agbaje-Gorite promised that he would be fair to all the sections of the community and pursue those courses that will fasttrack development, instead of fanning the ember of discord, disunity and acrimony among his people.
The royal father applauded Oyebanji-led government for undertaking a selection process that was bereft of crisis and imposition, saying the trend will help in stabilising tradition and add value to the institution.
The monarch promised not to betray the confidence reposed in him, or take any action that could deride and blight the integrity of royalty in the course of superintending over his people .
“To the kingmakers and the entire Aulodobiosupa ruling house, I am deeply grateful for your trust and support. To all our indigenes both at home and in the Diaspora, I thank you for your patience and peace throughout this process.
“I also extend a hand of unity to all, including those who may have differing views at any stage. Today, there are no divisions among us, we are one people bound by a shared history and a common destiny.. Together, we shall move forward in peace”.