Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to preserving the sanctity of the traditional institution as he installed the state’s youngest traditional ruler in recent years, Oba Adewole Oluwatosin Adewale (Amure Abe IV), as the Owa of Ayegbaju-Ekiti.

The installation of the 32-year-old monarch marked another milestone in the state’s traditional institution, with Governor Oyebanji declaring that his government would never impose a traditional ruler on any community, insisting that due process, established customs and the wishes of the people must always prevail in the selection of monarchs.

The governor also pledged greater collaboration with traditional rulers across the state to tackle criminal activities and strengthen security in local communities, describing monarchs as indispensable partners in governance and grassroots development.

Oyebanji, who was represented Tuesday, at the colourful ceremony by the Deputy Governor, Chief Monisade Afuye, presented the Staff of Office and Instrument of Appointment to Oba Adewole before a gathering of royal fathers, political leaders, community stakeholders and well-wishers in Ayegbaju-Ekiti, Oye Local Government Area.

He urged the new monarch to make peace, unity and inclusive development the hallmarks of his reign, stressing that the traditional institution remains a vital pillar for promoting social harmony and community progress.

According to the governor, the emergence of the new Owa reflected a transparent and credible selection process devoid of manipulation, political interference or actions capable of bringing the revered traditional institution into disrepute.

He encouraged the monarch to leverage the support of the community’s elite, youths, professionals and the diaspora to accelerate the socio-economic development of Ayegbaju-Ekiti.

“Today, the throne of the Owa of Ayegbaju Ekiti receives a ruler whose emergence followed the clear voice of tradition and the calm acceptance of the people. The clarity of the divination exercise and the absence of contention affirm that this process was guided by order and collective conviction.

“Let it be clearly stated that in this selection, there are no winners and no losers. What we see here is unity, acceptance and trust in a process that respected both culture and law.

“This administration remains committed to non-interference in chieftaincy matters, respect for declarations and partnership with communities in preserving our rich cultural heritage.

“Kabiyesi, may your reign be long, peaceful and prosperous. May wisdom, favour and divine guidance accompany you as you occupy the throne of your forefathers, bringing honour, development and lasting progress to Ayegbaju-Ekiti and Ekiti State.”

Earlier, the Commissioner for Chieftaincy and Home Affairs, Hon. Ojo Olaiya Atibioke, explained that the stool became vacant following the passing of Oba Solomon Adeloye on February 15, 2024. He noted that all statutory procedures, including consultation through Ifa divination in accordance with the community’s tradition and declaration, were duly observed before the emergence of Oba Adewole.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers and the Ogoga of Ikere-Ekiti, Oba Adejimi Adu Alagbado, commended Governor Oyebanji for maintaining neutrality and transparency in the appointment of traditional rulers across the state.

He noted that the governor’s respect for due process had ensured peaceful transitions on royal stools without litigation or communal unrest, describing the administration’s approach as worthy of emulation.

Oba Alagbado urged the people of Ayegbaju-Ekiti to rally behind their new monarch, saying unity and cooperation would enable the community to attract meaningful development and maximise the opportunities that come with stable traditional leadership.

In his acceptance speech, Oba Adewole expressed profound appreciation to Governor Oyebanji, the kingmakers and the people of Ayegbaju-Ekiti for the confidence reposed in him.

The monarch said the transparent and peaceful process that produced him had laid a solid foundation for reconciliation, unity and collective progress, pledging to lead with humility, fairness and selfless service.

He appealed to all sons and daughters of the community, both at home and in the diaspora, to join hands with him in building a more prosperous Ayegbaju-Ekiti.

Oba Adewole also appealed to the state government to continue supporting the town through improved infrastructure, expanded social amenities and increased political representation.

“I shall serve with humility and give everyone a sense of belonging. I can’t do it alone. Please join me as we take this town to the higher level we are all expecting and working towards. God will bless all of us,” the monarch said.

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