Osun: Ijabe Group Urges Due Process in Selection of Next Onijabe

By Segun Ojo, Osogbo

A human rights group, Ijabe Solidarity Forum, has called on the Osun State Government and other relevant authorities to ensure strict adherence to due process in the selection of the next Onijabe of Ijabe in Odo-Otin Local Government Area of the state.

The group made the call in a statement made made public on Wednesday.

Awodele said the selection of the next traditional ruler should be guided by the existing chieftaincy declaration, customary practices and rotational arrangement governing succession to the Onijabe stool.

According to the group, the traditional institution represents an important part of the history and cultural heritage of Ijabe, making it necessary for the succession process to be conducted in accordance with the established rules.

The forum further stated that, based on its understanding of the existing rotational arrangement, the Oloyan/Oluode Ruling House should be considered for the next occupant of the stool.

It said its position was consistent with an earlier statement attributed to the Oloyan/Oluode Ruling House, which reportedly maintained that it was its turn to produce the next Onijabe.

“For the avoidance of doubt, it is the turn of Oloyan/Oluode Ruling House to produce the next Onijabe and not Olukoye Ruling House. This is in line with the well-established rotational arrangement and chieftaincy declaration guiding the Onijabe stool,” the group said.

The forum also stated that, to its knowledge, no formal selection process had been announced by the kingmakers, while urging interested parties to await the commencement of the official process.

The group further called for appropriate scrutiny of aspirants to the stool, saying issues of character, experience, heritage and acceptability should be considered alongside other requirements contained in the relevant chieftaincy arrangements.

“The Onijabe stool is a revered institution with a long history. Whoever emerges as the next occupant should do so through the process established by the people and the relevant authorities,” the statement said.

The forum stressed that the selection process should be transparent and inclusive, with all stakeholders given the opportunity to participate within the framework provided by law and tradition.

It therefore appealed to Governor Ademola Adeleke, the kingmakers, Odo-Otin Local Government and the Osun State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to ensure that the process is conducted in accordance with the applicable chieftaincy declaration and relevant regulations.

The group also urged all aspirants, ruling houses and their supporters to maintain peace and refrain from actions that could disrupt the process.

It said all parties should allow the recognised traditional and government institutions to carry out their responsibilities in determining the next Onijabe following the demise of Oba Felix Oyeniyi Oyelade II.