Press Statement
Unlawful Installation of Prince Adekolajo Aladeseyi as Olujare of Ijare: A Call for Immediate Action
The Sejeokun Ruling House is compelled to formally address the forceful and unauthorized installation processes of Prince Adekolajo Aladeseyi as the Olujare King, although the Executive Chairman of Ifedore Local Government had come out to openly discard the process as an action that lacked Government’s approval.
This action was executed without the necessary approval of the government and constitutes a blatant disregard for established protocols as well as ongoing legal proceedings.
It is important to remind the public and relevant authorities of the directive issued by the Ondo State Government through the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, clearly advising that all processes related to the selection and installation of a new Olujare be halted.
This directive, conveyed through official communication, was intended to ensure that the courts have the opportunity to deliberate and resolve the legal dispute surrounding this matter. The actions of Prince Adekolajo Aladeseyi and his supporters flagrantly contravened this directive, undermining the principles of due process and the rule of law.
Furthermore, it is critical to emphasize that none of the Kingmakers who are traditionally responsible for overseeing and participating in the installation of a new king, were involved in this purported installation. In a brazen show of force, five of the Kingmakers (Chief Oduno, Chief Agbaajo, Chief Asae, Chief Balou and Chief Ologodo) were dragged out of their homes in the mid-night under duress, with cutlasses and guns used to intimidate them, and coerced into participating in the process.
This egregious act not only invalidates the legitimacy of the installation but also raises serious concerns about the safety and well-being of the community.
This unauthorized and unlawful action has already begun to sow significant unrest and unease within our community. If left unaddressed, it risks escalating into widespread anarchy, thereby threatening the peace and stability of Ijare. The government and relevant authorities must intervene immediately to halt this illegitimate process and nullify any actions undertaken outside the confines of the law.
We call on the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, as well as all other relevant stakeholders, to act swiftly and decisively to enforce compliance with the ministry’s earlier directive. This intervention is crucial to preserving public trust, upholding the rule of law, and maintaining the sanctity of our traditions and governance systems.
Ijare deserves a process that is lawful, respectful of tradition, and representative of the will of its people. I trust in the commitment of the government and the ministry to ensure that justice prevails in this matter.
Thank you.
Signed
Jimoh Aliu: Chairman
Sunday Adekanbi: Secretary
For: Sejeokun Ruling House
