A fresh wave of unrest is sweeping through Akungba-Akoko in Akoko Southwest Local Government Area of Ondo State, as aggrieved residents reject the recent installation of Prince Isiaka Oseni as the Alale of Akungba.
The protests, led by the Olugbade Ruling House, erupted following the Ondo State Executive Council’s approval of Oseni, who hails from the Ole Ruling House. Protesters say the move violates the long-standing rotational arrangement between the two royal families.
From elders to market women, youths, and even children, the community took to the streets armed with placards, chanting slogans and calling on Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to reverse what they described as a government-backed imposition.
Pa Roland Omidina Ajigbale, the town’s oldest living resident, warned that any attempt to force a monarch on the community without respecting tradition would be resisted. “It is Olugbade’s turn, not Ole’s. This is how crisis begins,” he declared.
Elder statesman Pa Andrew Makanjuola also criticized the state’s handling of the process. “This is not how kings are chosen in Akungba. The traditions were ignored, the kingmakers were sidelined,” he said.
Backing this claim, Prince Oyewumi Samuel of the Aro clan, a statutory kingmaker, revealed that no formal meeting was convened by the kingmakers before the government’s pronouncement. “It’s a breach of process,” he said bluntly.
In a rare show of unity, both elders and youths joined forces against the installation. Princess Kafayat Omosowon Adegoriola, who spoke on behalf of the town’s youth, issued a stark warning: “If the government refuses to listen, things could spiral out of control.”
Prince Adesuyi Clement Olorunnbe, Secretary of the Akungba Development Union and spokesperson for the Olugbade Ruling House, invoked legal backing for the protests. Quoting Section 1(1) of the Ondo State Chieftaincy Declaration and Section 14 of the Chiefs Law, he emphasized that the kingship rotates strictly between the Ole and Olugbade ruling houses.
“The last king was from Ole. This time, it is Olugbade’s rightful turn. This act is not only unjust but illegal,” Olorunnbe stated. He further disclosed that the ruling house had already submitted the name of a proposed regent to the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, only to be blindsided by Oseni’s approval.
Calling the installation “a grave injustice,” the ruling house warned that the peace of Akungba now hangs in the balance.
“Governor Aiyedatiwa must act quickly to reverse this travesty and preserve peace in our town,” Olorunnbe urged.
As at press time, the state government had yet to respond to the growing backlash.
Credit: New Telegraph
