Ogun Community Alleges Breaches in Selection of New Traditional Ruler
In Arigbajo community, located within the Ewekoro Local Council of Ogun State, members of the ruling houses have raised significant concerns regarding the ongoing selection process to fill the vacant Olu of Arigbajo stool. The former Olu, Oba Timothy Mosaku, passed away last year at the age of 89, leaving the position open and sparking controversy over the succession.
Allegations of Non-Native Candidates and Political Influence
Adedeji Adegbenro, a prince from the leading Amoriwako Ruling House, has alleged that one of the candidates presenting himself as the Olu-elect is not a native of Arigbajo, but rather hails from the Yewa area of the state. According to him, only sons of the Amoriwako Ruling House, who are the original founders of Arigbajo, are qualified to present the next traditional ruler. This claim underscores a deep-seated adherence to lineage and tradition within the community.
Adding to the tension, the Olowu of Owu has declared that only an offspring of a family native to Arigbajo and belonging to the ruling house can contest the vacant stool. He noted with concern that the selection process is being influenced by politicians, which he believes compromises its integrity. He stated, "I withdrew from presenting myself when I began to notice that the process was being muddled. Qualified people were also being forced to step down for unqualified people, who are non-natives. This is why I stepped back."
Breaches of Traditional Process and Community Divisions
Sunday Ishola, another member of the Amoriwako Ruling House, emphasized that traditionally, the Arigbajo stool should be occupied by a qualified indigene in accordance with established customs, traditions, and lineage requirements. He explained, "According to customs and tradition, it is the ruling house that has the exclusive authority to nominate candidates for the stool. Unfortunately, there are indications that certain quarters are attempting to assume this responsibility. This action constitutes a breach of the established traditional process." He insisted that the traditions and cultural heritage of Arigbajo must be respected in any process concerning the stool.
Olanrewaju Oyewale, the Balogun Arigbajo, mentioned that the selection process is ongoing, with people showing interest and their names and profiles being compiled. However, this has not quelled the disputes.
On a contrasting note, Babalola Famuyiwa, Secretary of Omo Ilu Arigbajo Home and Abroad, asserted that the selection process has been free, fair, and transparent so far. He noted that five bona fide candidates have indicated interest and presented themselves before the council, suggesting that "it is probably those who have not made appearance that are raising issues."
Historical Context and State Intervention
Sikiru Adisa, Chairman of Ewekoro Local Council, provided historical context, revealing that the crisis began about 15 years ago when two siblings were installed as traditional rulers by different authorities: one by the Alake of Egbaland and another by the Olowu of Owu. The Olu installed by the Alake prevailed and has since passed away, but this situation created lasting divisions within the community.
To address the current impasse, the Ogun State Ministry of Chieftaincy Affairs has intervened, directing all four ruling houses to come together and choose candidates for an election. This move aims to foster unity and ensure a more democratic selection process, though it remains to be seen if it will resolve the underlying tensions over tradition and eligibility.
The allegations of breaches in the selection process highlight the delicate balance between preserving cultural heritage and navigating modern political influences in Ogun State's traditional governance structures.
