Some indigenes of Iresaadu in Surulere Local Government Area of Oyo State have called on Governor Seyi Makinde to intervene in the chieftaincy dispute surrounding the Aresaadu of Iresaadu, Oba Abraham Adeyeye, urging full recognition of the monarch and release of his official entitlements.
The appeal was made on Thursday in Ibadan during a press briefing addressed by Mr Stephen Raji, counsel to the traditional ruler, speaking on behalf of the concerned indigenes.
The group urged the Oyo State Government to release all outstanding entitlements and regalia belonging to Oba Adeyeye, describing the delay as unjust and disruptive to traditional governance in the community.
They also asked the government to ensure that the monarch is allowed to fully discharge his official duties without interference.
The indigenes specifically called on the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Mr Ademola Ojo, to withdraw a letter reportedly issued in September 2025.
The letter allegedly directed the Surulere Local Government Council to begin a fresh nomination process for a parallel Aresaadu stool, following claims that a court judgment had nullified Oba Adeyeye’s appointment.
However, the group insisted that no valid court ruling had removed the monarch from office.
The group warned that initiating a parallel selection process could worsen tensions in Iresaadu and destabilise the traditional institution.
They urged the state government to rely strictly on verified legal records and official directives rather than external influence from other traditional interests.
They also stressed that only the Oyo State House of Assembly has the legal authority to amend chieftaincy laws or declarations.
The indigenes urged Governor Makinde to investigate officials allegedly involved in the disputed directive and take appropriate disciplinary action where necessary.
They also demanded that Oba Adeyeye be fully recognised as a member of both the Oyo State Council of Obas and the Surulere Traditional Council.
The Aresaadu stool has been embroiled in a prolonged succession dispute between the Oshunbiyi and Emiolu ruling families.
Both families continue to lay claim to the right to produce the traditional ruler, leading to recurring legal and political tensions in the community.
While the Emiolu family insists it is their turn to produce the monarch, the Oshunbiyi family maintains that its candidate, Oba Abraham Adeyeye, remains the legitimate occupant of the throne under existing legal arrangements.
