CITIZENS COMPASS —Two monarchs have emerged in the Iree community in Boripe Local Government Area of Osun State with one of them claiming supremacy over another. 

This has resulted in a crisis in the ancient town. 

According to reports, the discord stems from the appointment of Oba Ademola Ponle during the tenure of former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola. 

However, Governor Ademola Adeleke suspended Ponle’s reign and established a committee to review the appointment. Subsequently, a White Paper was issued after a year, mandating a fresh selection process that culminated in the installment of Prince Muritala Oyelakin from the Oyekun Ruling House as the new Aare of Iree.

Rituals for the Oba-elect commenced on Friday as he embarked on a tour of significant sites in the town, accompanied by community leaders. However, tensions heightened during the traditional rites when leaders allegedly forcefully entered the Odofin’s house (seclusion), which had been sealed since Oba Ponle’s emergence. Gunshots reverberated through the town, exacerbating the apprehension surrounding Oba Oyelakin’s ceremonial activities.

Chief Taiwo Oguntobi, the head of kingmakers in Iree, voiced dissent, stating, “I am not part of the process for the selection of the new king appointed by the government.” Oguntobi emphasized the absence of key representatives during the rites, casting doubt on the legitimacy of Oba Oyelakin’s ascension.

In contrast, Oba Oyelakin defended his appointment, asserting that the government duly installed him and that the rites were conducted with community participation and support. He downplayed the significance of the gunshots, attributing them to traditional customs.

Meanwhile, Oba Ponle maintained his claim to the throne, affirming his status as the authentic king of Iree and citing possession of the requisite regalia affirming that there were no two kings in the town.

—The Nation