By John Dike, Osogbo
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has ordered an immediate investigation into the emerging kingship dispute in Koka Ilase, Obokun Local Government Area of the state.
He gave the directive on Sunday shortly before departing Nigeria for a short vacation in Europe.
According to a statement issued by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Adeleke is travelling to the United Kingdom, where he is also expected to undergo routine medical examinations as part of his vacation.
The governor, however, directed the State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to urgently investigate the circumstances surrounding the reported appointment of another monarch for Koka Ilase, a development that has allegedly created a situation where two individuals are laying claim to the traditional stool.
Adeleke charged the ministry to review the circumstances leading to the development and ensure that due process, as provided under the state’s chieftaincy laws and the traditions of the people, is followed in resolving the matter.
The governor said the ministry’s investigation was necessary to establish the facts and provide clarity on the legitimacy of the competing claims to the traditional stool.
“I am taking a short break to refresh and get further prepared to serve the good people of Osun State.
“I read of another King appointed outside the one on the stool. The ministry is hereby directed to look into the dispute and issue a report to set the records straight.
“I, however, urge all stakeholders to remain peaceful as the ministry does the needful. Kingship is governed by extant laws and regulations, and the government will stand by the law and tradition of our people,” Adeleke said.
The governor’s directive comes amid concerns over the reported emergence of another monarch in Koka Ilase, with stakeholders expected to await the outcome of the ministry’s investigation.
The development has also underscored the importance of adherence to established chieftaincy laws and traditional procedures in the selection and recognition of monarchs across the state.
Adeleke urged all parties and stakeholders in the dispute to refrain from actions capable of escalating tensions, assuring that the government would rely on the law and the customs of the people in resolving the matter.
The Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs is expected to submit its findings and recommendations to the state government after reviewing the circumstances surrounding the disputed kingship.
