A group of concerned traditionalists and indigenes of Orile-Imo community in Obafemi -Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State led by Oluwo-Ifa of Imo, Oloye Sunday Matiku have petitioned President Bola Tinubu and Governor Dapo Abiodun over alleged imposition of a traditional ruler in the community.
Penpushing reports that the complainants in the letter dated August 13, 2024 sent through the office of the Chief of Staff to the President, and copied Senate President, House of Representatives’ Speaker, Secretary to the Government of Federation, National Security Adviser, Inspector General of Police and Director General of State Security Services alleged a notable first-class traditional ruler in the state as behind the imposition.
The indigenes specifically pointed out that one Oluwambe Sogaolu was imposed as the new Olu of Orile-Imo, contrary to the outcome of the selection process conducted by the Kingmakers which produced Chief Mathew Alawode as rightful occupier of the throne
Penpushing further reports that they argued that the ugly development is now making residents, especially the youths becoming restless, and therefore appealed to all authorities concern to come to the aid of the community before situation turn sour.
The concerned indigenes explained that the kingmakers had twice on June 19, 2020 and April 30, 2024 respectively conducted selection of the monarch to rule the town, adding that in that order the process produced Chief Mathew Alawode
Penpushing also reports that the letter emphasized that Alawode polled six votes while other contestants which include Chief Olakunle Olalekan Joseph scored two votes, Chief Aroyewun Hakeem Abiodun, Chief (Dr) Oluwadairo Adeleke Samuel Sogaolu Oluwambe Mofolorunso recorded zero vote.
The complainants said to their amazement some forces alongside the alleged first-class traditional ruler deceived the state government and erroneously presented a staff of office to Mofolorunso as the new monarch for the town
Penpushing reports that the complainants accused the paramount ruler of being biased and showing preference for the failed candidate in the screening and conduct of selection, emphasizing that Governor Dapo Abiodun was deceived
‘The youths and people of the community are restless and will appreciate your prompt intervention as concerned are already threatening us with security agents. We shall remain law abiding, but the people mandate must be restored as we say no to imposition and plead to restore the people of Imo’s traditional council mandate’, the letter stressed
Penpushing further reports that the letter said Mathew Alawode, who is the duly elected monarch for the town had since approached the State High Court sitting in Abeokuta to seek legal redress after he discovered that there was hidden agenda, adding that all those identified as behind the imposition had been served alongside the Ogun State Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice
The complainants in the letter expressed shock and disappointment that the alleged traditional ruler was disregarding the court process served on him and went ahead to recognize Sogaolu Oluwambe as new monarch for Orile-Imo
Penpushing also reports that the traditionalists expressed disappointment that they were sidelined in the selection process of the traditional ruler which according to them, is against the custom and traditions in Yoruba land
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