The people of Iree in Boripe local government of Osun state are divided over the suspension of Oba Raphael Oluponle and the directives by Governor Ademola Adeleke to begin the process for the selection of another person afresh.
National president, Iree Progressive Association (IPA) and the Asiwaju of Ireeland, Adenrele Afolabi, at a press conference held at Iree town hall, Monday, said the governor had corrected the mistake with the white paper released on the monarch.
But Prince Adebayo Adeleke who led representatives of six ruling houses and those involved in performing ritual rites for a King-designate, at another place in the town, said the attempt by Governor Adeleke to impose another king on the town after a king had been installed, would be resisted.
Subsequently, the suspended monarch, Oba Oluponle said he remains the king and no white paper can upturn the popular demand of the people of Ireeland.
Speaking on behalf of the community, Afolabi said by giving power back to the kingmakers to perform their traditional duties, the governor has shown dedication to upholding the customs and traditions of the people of Iree.
“Such a move not only rectifies the injustice done in the past but also ensures that the correct protocols are followed in the selection of a new ruler. The kingmakers need to exercise their role with utmost diligence, fairness, and transparency. Their responsibility to uphold the traditions and values of the community must be carried out in a manner that respects the aspirations of the people.
“I implore the kingmakers to take this opportunity to do the needful in the right way. Let justice and wisdom guide your decisions as you choose the rightful successor to the throne, Your actions will not only impact the present but also shape the future of Iree. May your choices unite the community and foster progress, prosperity, and harmony for all its residents,” Afolabi said.
Similarly, Adeleke said the purported meeting led by Afolabi does not represent the interest of the Iree people but the interest of some political miscreants sponsored by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Adeleke who said he believed in the process that presented the incumbent monarch, Oba Ademola Oluponnle Raphael said the people of the town were in support of the monarch and other royal families never contested his emergence in a law court when he was installed, saying people are now hiding under the guise of the government’s declaration to cause crisis in the town.
