The Regent of Ijesa-Isu Ekiti in Ikole Local Government Area, Princess Omobolaji Adeniyi, has raised concern over alleged attempts by some individuals to destabilise the town and disrupt its peace.
Addressing a press conference at the Palace of the Obanla of Ijesa-Isu on Saturday, the regent—flanked by members of the Obanla-in-Council—appealed to Governor Biodun Oyebanji to urgently intervene and prevent what she described as a looming breakdown of law and order allegedly being fueled by “powerful politicians.”
Princess Adeniyi dismissed recent reports announcing the suspension of the Eleje of Ipole Ileje, High Chief Olusegun Akiti, describing it as a falsehood designed to create unrest.
She said, “Sometime last week, there was a radio announcement stating that High Chief Olusegun Akiti, the Eleje of Ijesa-Isu Ekiti, had been suspended indefinitely by some set of people. We were surprised to hear the announcement. I am appealing to all Nigerians and indigenes of Ijesa-Isu Ekiti to please disregard such information. Nothing like that happened. If there is going to be any suspension, there are due processes that must be followed by the Obanla-in-Council.”
The regent stressed that there have been lingering issues in the community since before her installation, but warned against allowing them to escalate into violence. She assured that security agencies at both local and state levels had been briefed and were monitoring the situation.
Princess Adeniyi said, “I appeal to the state government to come to our aid and ensure that those trying to disrupt the peace, unity and harmony of this town are called to order.”
On his part, High Chief Akiti, who reaffirmed his legitimacy as the Eleje of Ipole Ileje, noted that he was duly appointed and installed with a letter of recognition. He wondered how some individuals could claim to suspend him without following laid-down procedures.
Akiti, while urging residents to remain calm, added, “We are peace-loving, hardworking people committed to the progress of our community, local government and state. I advise members of the community to go about their normal businesses and report any disturbance or harassment to the community authorities and the police.”
