The Ofokutu Royal Family of the Bilaro Ruling House in Ilesa, Osun State, has strongly opposed the selection of a former Deputy Governor of Osun State, Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, as the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland.
The family accused the kingmakers of violating traditional selection processes, describing the decision as an “imposition.”
Haastrup, a descendant of the Ajimoko Royal Family, was reportedly chosen as the new monarch during a meeting at the Ilesa West Local Government Secretariat on Friday. His selection was later ratified by the Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke.
However, in a statement issued by Adetoyese Adegbohungbe, Secretary of the Ofokutu Royal Family, and obtained in Osogbo on Saturday, the family expressed dissatisfaction, emphasizing their readiness to challenge the process in court.
“We, the members of the Ofokutu Royal Family, were taken aback by the announcement of a new Owa Obokun, which blatantly disregards the long-standing traditions guiding the emergence of the Paramount Ruler of Ijesaland,” the statement read.
The family also maintained that the procedure leading to Haastrup’s emergence was riddled with irregularities.
“This is not just a breach of tradition but an affront to the cultural values of Ijesaland and we categorically dissociate ourselves from this anomaly and reject the purported Owa-elect”, the statement continued.
Reiterating their commitment to safeguarding the legacy of the throne, the family pledged to explore all legal avenues to address their grievances.
“The Ofokutu Royal Family will not relent in its efforts to ensure the restoration of justice and the preservation of the revered traditions of our people. We shall pursue every legal means to defend the right of Ijesa to choose their monarch through due process,” Adegbohungbe declared.
The family further criticized the role of the kingmakers, accusing them of undermining the sanctity of the Owa Obokun stool. They called on stakeholders in Ijesaland to rally against the perceived injustice, stating, “This imposition tarnishes the image and pride of Ijesaland. It is imperative that we unite to restore the honor of our cultural heritage.”
Haastrup, a seasoned politician as at time of filing this report, is yet to respond to the allegations, surrounding the new appointment, while efforts to also reach Governor Adeleke’s office were unsuccessful as of press time.
