By Adeyinka Adeniran
A socio-political group in Ikole-Ekiti, Ekiti state, “Save Ikole Group” has sent a save our soul letter to Governor Biodun Oyebanji to intervene in the matter of long absence of Elekole of Ikole-Ekiti, Oba Adewumi Fasiku from the town.
A letter, addressed to the Governor, Ekiti, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, his Deputy, Mrs Monisade Afuye, Ekiti Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr Folorunso Olabode, was signed by nine frontline group members and made available to newsmen in Ibadan, the Oyo state capital on Tuesday.
The group pleaded with the state government to depose the traditional ruler of Ikole-Ekiti, Oba Fasiku claiming that the royal father has been incapacitated by illness for over two years.
It was further alleged that the royal father has not been seen in public and is no longer capable of defending, protecting and preserving the community.
The letter requesting the deposition of the monarch was written on the letter head of the group, dated 11th September, was entitled, “Request for intervention in the matter of the long time absence of Elekole of Ikole-Ekiti from the town”
The letter was also copied the Lagos State and Diaspora chapters of the youth group.
The letter was signed by: Hon. Segun Adelugba, Chief Alaba Olanipekun, Mr. Benjamin Fatoye, Mr Mathew Makinde, Mr. Laisi Oguntuase, Mr. Funso Oguntuase, Mr. Tope Famoroti, Mr. Ademola Ogunjobi and Prince Taiwo Olominu
The group alleged that the traditional ruler had left the palace since August 17 2021, while his whereabout was not disclosed to the indigenes of Ikole-Ekiti ever since.
“His immediate family has not made any information about him available, thereby leaving the entire community without leadership, direction and control for the past two years and over and there has been no development or growth of any kind in the recent past.
“There has been no coordinated efforts to harness individual moves aimed at improving the lot of our community: The high chiefs in the town have all been working at cross purposes for their own benefits and to the detriment of the entire community”, the letter read.
Reacting to the letter, the Lagos chapter said in a reply letter, “Two days ago, we became fully aware of your recent letter dated 12th September addressed to the Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Blodun Oyebanji about your contem about the continued absence of the Elekole of Ikole-Ekiti, Oba Adewumi Fasiku from his domain.
“We have noted that, according to your letter, your group is merely playing a placatory cum interventionists’ role in this matter.
“We have also noted the summary of the letter whose ultimate aim appears to be geared towards engendering meaningful development, peace and progress in Ikole-Ekiti.
“If our assumption is right. then, we wish to associate ourselves with this laudable goal and ipso facto, commend you all for this patriotism.
“However, we are of the considered opinion that, rather than externalizing the matter to the governor, you should have reached out to our highly respected Ikole Chiefs through the “Iwarefas” and the “Omo-ilus” through their Baba Egbe.
“Notwithstanding, a few of us, your brothers listed below, have decided to also intervene, and Indeed, are already doing so, in order to prevent the situation from getting worse.
“We have since reached out to our HRM, some Ikole Chiefs, “Omo-ilus’ and stakeholders with a view to partnering with them to curtail the alleged misgivings.
“We are hereby appealing to you to utilize your good contacts with the restive youths, you referred to in your letter, to sheath their swords and maintain peace and order in the town while robust efforts are on-going to address their observations and/or grievances.
“Needless to say that for Ikole-Ekiti to move forward, we must all join hands to ensure its respectability, pride and honour at all times.”
The Lagos chapter letter was signed by the executive members of the group, Oloye Fola Omalayo, Engr. Dare Oseni, Pastor Banji Filani, Mr. Bayode Ajayi and Dr. Seye Aderiye.
