The Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, on Thursday, installed the new Obanla of Ijesa- Isu, Ikole Local Government Area, Oba David Oluwasegun Ateji, with a charge to traditional rulers to entrench the culture of justice, fairness and equitable leadership at the grassroots, for sustainable peace and unity.
Oyebanji described the throne of Obanla as sacred, and deeply rooted in history, sustained by the collective will of the people, saying the enthronement further corroborated that patience and respect for due process always yield honourable outcomes.
Oba Ateji, the first monarch that emerged from Omotoyo Royal Dynasty, is to succeed the late Oba Gabriel Oso Adeniyi from Akoko Ruling House, who joined his ancestors on 23rd September, 2024.
Speaking at the epochal event held at Ijesa- Isu Ekiti, the governor, represented by his Deputy, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, was enthralled with the emergence of Oba Ateji, saying his appointment elevated the concept of inclusion, fairness, and the healing of age-long historical imbalances in the town’s monarchical trajectory.
He said his administration firmly believes in leadership that is just and respectful of institutions, stating that respect for monarchy reflects the understanding that peace can only be realised when our cultural heritage is protected.
“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 one 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. Our traditional rulers remain critical partners in governance. They serve as custodians of our customs and values, mediators in times of conflict, and mobilizers for grassroots development.
“We place great premium on the role of our royal fathers in sustaining peace and fostering development across our towns and villages. We recognize that sustainable development is best achieved when Government and traditional Institutions work hand in hand.
“We urge Your Royal Majesty to be a father to all, irrespective of political affiliation, religion, or social status. Promote peace, encourage communal harmony, and support Government initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of our people. Your throne must be a symbol of justice, fairness, and inclusiveness”.
Appealing for strong and invincible unity in the community, Oyebanji averred that the strength of any town lies in its togetherness, encouraging all indigenes, both at home and in the diaspora, to rally round the new monarch and support him with loyalty, cooperation, and constructive engagement.
The commissioner for Chieftaincy and Home Affairs, Hon. Olaiya Ojo Atibioke, said the installation of the monarch was in firm alignment with the Ekiti State Chiefs Law and the Governor Oyebanji’s philosophy anchored on justice and fairplay..
Atibioke said the process culminating in the selection of Oba Ateji, was unanimous and bereft of arm twisting, interference and imposition, revealing that Governor Oyebanji has strong aversion for disrespect for traditional institution.
In his acceptance speech, the highly ecstatic Oba Ateji, promised to unite the kingdom and be fair to all his subjects.
The monarch urged other contestants to forget about the fierce battle that dogged the selection process and close ranks to fasttrack development and ward off bitterness among the people.
Oba Ateji said his cardinal focus is to transform Ijesa Isu to a model and epicentre of development in the state, by working with other critical stakeholders, assuring that era of communal frictions, crisis and enmity was over in the town.
The monarch applauded Governor Oyebanji for his respect for traditional institution, which he said vividly manifested in his ascension to the throne.
“I want to assure you that I am not here as a ruler, but as a custodian of customs and traditions of my people. I have no enemy to fight. Let us unite and make this town great”.
Former Ekiti State Deputy Governor and prominent son of the town, Chief Paul Alabi, applauded Governor Oyebanji for midwifing a selection process devoid of violence, assuring that the community shall vote massively for the All Progressives Congress in the coming governorship poll.
The former Deputy Governor, appealed to the kingmakers and all the sons and daughters of the community to stand by the new monarch to bring unprecedented development to the community during his reign.
The new Obanla, an Engineer by profession, is from Omotoyo Ruling House. He worked in the Federal Ministry of Trade, Industry and Investment and retired in 2024, after 35 years of meritorious service.