…reduces Isikan community title to ‘High Chief’, names new occupant

…as dethroned monarch heads for S’Court

By Ayodele Popoola

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The Deji and Paramount Ruler of Akure Kingdom, Oba (Dr.) Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, has appointed High Chief Gbenga Henry Adeyeye as the new Iralepo of Isikan Quarters, Akure, following the removal of the former holder, Mr. Gbenga Ojo.

The development comes after the judgment of the Court of Appeal, which ruled against Mr. Ojo’s claim to the title.

In a letter personally signed by Oba Aladetoyinbo, the monarch stated: “Sequel to the judgment of the Court of Appeal in suit No: CA/AK/69/2022, I hereby write to notify you of your removal as Chief Iralepo of Isikan Quarters in Akure with immediate effect.”

Consequently, Mr. Ojo was ordered to vacate the traditional palace of the Iralepo of Isikan without delay, while all palace properties in his possession were to be handed over for proper documentation.

With the appointment of High Chief Gbenga Henry Adeyeye, he is now vested with all rights and privileges associated with the stool, while Mr. Ojo has been warned against parading himself in any capacity related to the position.

The Deji’s palace warned that any defiance of the order would attract stiff penalties, including possible legal consequences.

The presentation of the certificate to the new Iralepo was witnessed by the Omowa of Isikan and other dignitaries at the Deji’s palace.

Meanwhile, the Iralepo of Isinkan-in-Council has rejected the Appeal Court ruling, vowing to challenge the verdict at the Supreme Court.

In a statement by the Olisa of Isinkan Kingdom, High Chief Kayode Oluyi, the council expressed strong reservations over the ruling, stating that it threatens the traditions, culture, and heritage of Isikan.

According to the statement, the council’s legal team is reviewing the judgment and will take necessary steps to appeal it.

The council maintained that the Deji of Akure had no authority to suspend the Iralepo, as he played no role in his appointment. It also reaffirmed Oba Oluwagbemiga Ajimokunola Olofin-Adimula (Arulewolasi III) as the legitimate Iralepo of Isinkan Kingdom.

Following the court ruling, Oba Aladetoyinbo had on Friday ordered the immediate suspension of Mr. Olugbenga Ojo as the Iralepo of Isinkan.

A statement by the monarch’s Press Secretary, Michael Adeyeye, read in part: “The immediate suspension is sequel to the judgement of the Appeal Court in Akure, which declared the upgrading of the Iralepo Chieftaincy as null, void and of no effect.

“The Appeal Court affirmed that Isikan remains a Quarter and a domain under the headship of the Deji of Akure Kingdom. It further held that no upgrading can be done without the consent of the Deji.”

The monarch, therefore, directed Mr. Ojo to stop parading himself under any title, stating, “All privileges attached to the chieftaincy title of the Iralepo have been suspended in their entirety with immediate effect.”

Oba Aladetoyinbo assured the people of Akure and Isinkan Quarters of their safety, urging them to go about their lawful activities without fear.