The controversy surrounding the selection of a new Owa of Idanre in Ondo State has deepened as the Kingmakers openly confirmed that each Obaship aspirant was asked to pay ₦10 million — but insisted the payment was lawful and not a bribe.
High Chief Christopher Oluwode Akindolire, the Lisa of Idanre and chairman of the Kingmakers, addressed a press conference in Odode-Idanre on Tuesday, affirming that the ₦10 million levy was voluntarily paid by contestants for the renovation of the ancient Owa’s palace and to support traditional rites involved in the selection process.
“We are not shying away from it. It is true we asked each contestant to pay ₦10 million. But we did not force anybody to pay. Only those who paid were balloted,” Akindolire said.
The Owa stool became vacant following the passing of Oba Frederick Aroloye over a year ago. Seven princes were shortlisted for the throne, but only five reportedly paid the ₦10 million levy, while two were disqualified for non-compliance.
The Ondo State Public Complaints, Financial Crime and Anti-Corruption Commission (SPFACC) had last week commenced an investigation after receiving a petition alleging that the payment contravened the state’s Chieftaincy Law and amounted to inducement.
But Akindolire dismissed the allegations as baseless and mischievous. “Even the president of this country paid over ₦100 million to obtain a form when he contested for office. If that could happen, what is wrong if Idanre Kingmakers request ₦10 million from those aspiring to become the Owa?” he argued.
The regent further revealed that the funds were deposited in a bank account under his name as chairman of the committee — not shared among members — and would be used for palace renovation, logistics, and allowances during the process.
“The Owa’s palace at Oke-Idanre has been abandoned for over 45 years. The money is meant to restore its dignity,” he added.
Several aspirants, including Babatope Gbolagunte Aroloye, Ibukun Aroloye, Kayode Aroloye, and Mayowa Aroloye, have publicly backed the Kingmakers, describing the contribution as a “necessary sacrifice” for the cultural and structural revival of Idanre Kingdom.
They maintained that no coercion was involved, saying the ₦10 million payment merely reflects their commitment to the heritage and sanctity of the Owa stool.
Meanwhile, the ongoing anti-corruption investigation is expected to determine whether the payment breached any traditional or legal provisions in the state’s chieftaincy process.
