A 25-year dispute over the traditional stool of Oke-Ako in Ikole Local Government Area of Ekiti State has ended with the installation of Oba Bamidele Oni as the new Owa of the community.
Biodun Oyebanji presented the staff of office to the traditional ruler on Monday, marking the formal conclusion of the long-running vacancy.
The governor, represented at the ceremony by his deputy, Monisade Afuye, congratulated Oba Oni and the people of Oke-Ako for overcoming the prolonged crisis surrounding the traditional institution.
The Owa stool became vacant after the death of Oba Omotayo Ogunbiyi, who hailed from the Oke Idi Osan Ruling House, on Dec. 10, 2000.
Oyebanji urged those who contested the stool, as well as other members of the community, to put the dispute behind them and support the new monarch.
He said unity among the people was essential to restoring Oke-Ako’s development and prosperity.
The governor appealed to residents to work closely with Oba Oni and contribute to the advancement of the community.
“I want you to work with Kabiyesi to restore the glory of Oke-Ako,” he said, urging the people to cooperate with the monarch for the benefit of the entire community.
Owa promises reconciliation and development
In his response, Oba Bamidele Oni expressed appreciation to the Ekiti State Government, the kingmakers and the various royal families for their roles in resolving the dispute.
The monarch pledged to justify the confidence placed in him by working to unite the people and accelerate development in Oke-Ako.
Oba Oni said his administration would partner with community stakeholders regardless of past disagreements, with the aim of promoting economic, political and social progress.
He also called on indigenes and other well-meaning residents to support his vision of building a peaceful, united and developed Oke-Ako.
The monarch said collaboration among the people would be crucial to creating an environment where development could thrive after years of disagreement over the traditional stool.
