IPELE, ONDO STATE -The ancient town of Ipele in the Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State was last week thrust into the center of a brewing scandal following grave allegations against its traditional ruler, the Olupele of Ipele, Oba Samuel Oluwasola Daramola. A 21-year-old woman, identified simply as Grace, has accused the monarch of sexual misconduct within the palace and subsequent death threats which allegedly resulted in a forced abortion. These claims have ignited widespread outrage both within the community and across the state, coming only months after the town’s police station was targeted in a violent attack.

The recurring cycle of negative headlines has sparked deep-seated concern among indigenes, many of whom trace the town’s current chalenges to a fundamental departure from its ancestral succession rites. Chief (Dr.) Adewunmi Abitoye, a prominent high chief and former President of the Ipele Development Association (IDA), has identified a controversial shift in the selection process of the Olupele as possibly the root cause of the community’s ongoing challenges.

According to Abitoye, Ipele historically operated a “ladder system” of succession—similar to the Olubadan model in Ibadan—whereby chiefs ascended the throne in a structured progression. However, this system was altered following agitation by some indigenes who demanded a more educated monarch.

“I was the President of the Ipele Development Association (IDA) at the time,” Abitoye recalled. “On August 16, 1998 during my mother’s burial, youths protested, insisting that the town wanted an ‘Olómọ̀wé’—a learned person—as king. That was how the process began.”

He explained that the agitation led to a series of memoranda submitted to the state government, eventually culminating in a judicial inquiry into traditional matters headed by Justice Adeloye. The outcome was a restructured system that introduced rotational kingship among quarters of the town.

Further investigations into the town’s history reveal that prior to these late 20th-century reforms, Ipele does not have a rigid royal lineage system or a ruling House. Succession originally rotated among three primary quarters of the town which are; Okeriwo, Igemo, and Ilana. Meanwhile, five other distinct communities—Ofi, Isire, Ujan, Isolo, and Oko—maintained their own independent traditional authorities, such as the Olofi of Ofi and the Oloten of Ujan.

However, following the series of memoranda submitted to the state government, the IDA-led reforms of the 1990s controversially reclassified these independent leaders as “kingmakers” and their communities as “Quarters.” Despite this reclassification, the Adeloye Judicial Inquiry ultimately excluded these five communities from the Olupele stool’s rotation, noting that they were never historically part of the succession line as they possessed their own distinct traditional heads.

It was observed by many indigenes of the Town that the transition has been marked by instability. The first monarch under the new system, the late Oba Abel Alade, reportedly had a turbulent reign until his death in 2015. A seven-year interregnum followed—the first ever in the town’s history—before the installation of Oba Olusegun Agaun in 2022. Agaun’s reign was short-lived, ending just eight months after his coronation. Oba Daramola, installed in 2024 as the third monarch under the revised system, now faces mounting criticism amid the latest controversy.

As the community grapples with the criminal allegations currently facing the palace, elders and stakeholders remain divided over the modernization of their customs. While the call for a learned monarch was intended to bring progress, critics argue that the violation of long-standing customs has left the town’s leadership vulnerable to instability.

Many residents, who spoke on condition of anonymity, expressed concerns that the new system has not delivered the expected progress. Some argue that Ipele’s political influence within Owo LGA has declined describing the town as “a shadow of its former self.”

Chief Abitoye also recalled that “Ipele was bigger than some towns in Ondo State in the 80’s but unfortunately, all the towns have now developed than Ipele”

Some elders in Ipele also point to achievements recorded under the old system, including the construction of a federal highway and electrification of the town in the 80’s, as evidence that traditional rulers without formal education were still effective leaders.

“There is power in tradition,” one elder said. “A town that forgets its roots risks losing its identity.”

Further criticism has been directed at what residents describe as the commercialization of chieftaincy titles. Traditionally, chieftaincy positions in the town were pathways to the throne in the past before the new system and therefore, required rigorous screening and adherence to custom. However, some allege that titles are now conferred indiscriminately, eroding their cultural significance.

Concerns have also been raised over alleged interference in land matters involving communities such as Ofi, regarded as one of the original settlers of Ipele. Critics argue that a monarch who rose through the traditional system would have possessed deeper historical knowledge and cultural grounding as to never get involved in such

Calls are growing for a return to the ancestral ladder system. Many indigenes believe that restoring traditional practices is key to resolving the various challenges of the town.

“The town must retrace its steps before it is too late,” an elder warned.

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Hon Temidayo Borokini has also joined other well meaning sons and daughters of Akure Kingdom in rejoincing with the newly installed Edemo of Akure kingdom High Chief Adesina Adelusi Fayehun by the paramount ruler of Akure kingdom, Oba Dr Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi Ogunlade.

According to Borokini ” We are happy and joyous celebrating with you today and always ascending the historic position of Edemo”

“I prayed God to grant you the divine wisdom to drive the throne successfully” Borokini said

The post YOUR INSTALLATION-A WELL-DESERVED ONE AS EDEMO OF AKURE KINGDOM SAYS HON. BOROKINI appeared first on Germane Reporters.

Hon. ADEBAYO, Ayodele Gabriel, Vice Chairman AKSLG heartily congratulate HIGH CHIEF ADESINA ADELUSI FAYEHUN on his well-deserved installation as the High Chief Edemo of Akure Kingdom by His Imperial Majesty, the Deji of Akure Kingdom.

This exalted elevation is a testament to your years of selfless service, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to the progress of Akure Kingdom, your humility, Quality Outstandingness, worthy of emulation leadership prowess, as Blessed you to clinch on to this revered, age-long, and autonomous traditional stool of our forefathers.

We are confident that your reign will usher in peace, unity, and greater developments for our people, Ijomu, and Akure Kingdom atlarge.

May your tenure be long, fruitful, and blessed with the wisdom of our ancestors.

Hon. ADEBAYO Ayodele Gabriel, pledge his full support and loyalty as you assume this noble responsibility.

May your reign be positively notable, may it be productive and peaceful with remarkable and developmental results .

Congratulations to you sir, our own HIGH CHIEF.

E-Signed :
Hon. ADEBAYO, Ayodele Gabriel. Vice-chairman,AKSLG
Powered by:
C.M.A Tope Ogunleye

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As a proud son of Ijomu in Akure Kingdom, it is with great joy and a profound sense of pride that I, Oluseye Abimbola, Team Lead at Bim-Prestige Global, extend my warmest felicitations to High Chief Adesina Adelusi Fayehun on his well-deserved installation as the Edemo of Akure Kingdom.

This remarkable installation is not only a recognition of your unwavering commitment to the growth, unity, and cultural preservation of Akure Kingdom, but also a testament to your distinguished character, wisdom, and years of impactful service to our people. Your emergence at this critical time in our history brings renewed hope for sustained progress, strengthened traditional values, and inclusive development within the kingdom.

The revered stool of Edemo is one of great honour and responsibility, deeply rooted in the rich heritage of Akure. I am confident that your tenure will be marked by purposeful leadership, sound counsel, and a relentless pursuit of peace, progress, and prosperity for all.

Sir, as you assume this noble role, may your reign be blessed with divine guidance, good health, and the wisdom required to uphold the dignity of the throne and further elevate the legacy of Akure Kingdom.

Once again, congratulations, High Chief Adesina Adelusi Fayehun. Your installation is a collective pride, and we celebrate this historic milestone with you.

Signed:
Oluseye Abimbola
Team Lead, Bim-Prestige Global

The post CELEBRATING A HISTORIC ASCENSION: OLUSEYE ABIMBOLA FELICITATES HIGH CHIEF ADESINA ADELUSI FAYEHUN EDEMO OF AKURE LAND appeared first on Germane Reporters.

A notable Akure son Hon Abisoye Charles Agbayowa, the S.A to Akure South local government Chairman has congratulated High Chief Adesina Adelusi Fayehun , the newly installed Edemo Of Akure Kingdom by the Deji of Akure Kingdom Oba Aladelusi Ogunlade.

” Am highly delighted joining the good people of Akure kigdom.today , celebrating the newly installed Edemo of Akure”

May your reign brings fortune to the land

The post Hon Agbayowa Rejoices Newly Installed Edemo Of Akure, High Chief Adesina Adelusi Fayehun appeared first on Germane Reporters.

David Olusola (king) has joined other well meaning individuals to celebrate the newly installed Edemo Of Akure, High Chief Adesina Adelusi Fayehun.

King who prayed God to grant the High Chief the wisdom to paddle the ship of the community to an enviable destination

” On behalf of myself , family and friends ,I congratulate the newly installed Edemo of Akure long life and wisdom on the throne of his fore- fathers” Olusola said

The post KING DAVID OLUSOLA CELEBRATES NEWLY INSTALLED EDEMO OF AKURE KINGDOM, HIGH CHIEF ADESINA ADELUSI appeared first on Germane Reporters.

Community leaders and stakeholders in the governing affairs of Idogun land in Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State have appealed to the state government to allow the appointment of a regent to occupy the vacuum in the obaship, owing to the outrage that led to the ban of the king from entering the community for months.
This was contained in a five-page letter of appeal addressed to the governor through the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.
Detailing the atrocities allegedly committed by Oba Ekundayo Bakare in the letter, which led to his rejection by the majority of the indigenes of Idogun land, the community leaders expressed dissatisfaction with the absence of a traditional leader since October 2025, when he was ordered by the court to stay away from the community and has since become a tenant in Akure.
Pending the determination of the case by the administrative panel of enquiry set up by the government, the community leaders pleaded with the government to also allow each quarter head to administer their domain, in addition to the appointment of an Etioloja (Regent).
“It is now over six months that Idogun has been without a sitting Oba, except for the one who parades himself as the Onidogun of Idogun, cruising about in a government vehicle and boasting that he will soon occupy his throne either by hook or by crook.
“We cannot continue to have a leadership vacuum. It is against our culture and tradition. We cannot continue to be silent about this development,” the letter reads.
They urged the governor to compel the panel of inquiry to hasten its report and make appropriate recommendations.
“The silence of government in this regard is worrisome. We want to state here, without equivocation, that government should consider the interest of the generality of the Idogun community as against the interest of an individual who has become a persona non grata in the entire community.
“Idogun is a peaceful and law-abiding community, but government should prevent a situation where Oba Moses Olorunnibe Bakare pushes this peaceful community into a theatre of violence.
“We have tolerated Oba Moses for more than 19 years. He is no longer wanted in the community. Enough is enough.
“There are records of first-class Obas/Emirs/Sultans in this country whose misdemeanours were not up to half of what the Onidogun did and were subsequently banished from their respective domains, and heaven did not fall.
“We believe that the goal of every government is peace, progress, and prosperity. The absence of Oba Moses Bakare since October 6, 2025, has brought peace and tranquillity to the community.
“We want to appeal to our peace-loving governor, through the Honourable Commissioner, to ensure that the current peace being enjoyed in the Idogun community is not jeopardised.”
It could be recalled that the community, through Barrister Segun Ogodo, had submitted 49 memoranda to the panel in 2025 detailing all the alleged atrocities by the monarch.
The panel, upon receipt of the memoranda, visited the community in January 2026 for fact-finding and conducted a public hearing where evidence was tendered and admitted.
Some allegations against the monarch include the unilateral establishment of a vigilante group called Palace Boys, used mainly to harass and intimidate his perceived enemies.
He was further alleged to have illegally seized people’s goats and rams for weekly rituals unknown to Idogun tradition, without payment or compensation to the owners.
Also alleged are the use of palace boys to carry out the illegal shaving of innocent people’s hair for ritual purposes, illicit transactions, and the collection of money from Indian hemp planters and couriers, among others.

The post “Enough Is Enough”: Ondo Community Idogun Leaders Declare , Demand Regent, Reject Monarch appeared first on Germane Reporters.

The Special Adviser on Health to Ondo state Governor and Ondo South Senatorial aspirant, Prof Simidele Odimayo has congratulated His Royal Majesty Oba (Barr) Michael Elumaro Akinfolarin, the Larogbo of Akotogbo kingdom as the new Chairman of the Council of Obas in Irele local government area of Ondo state.

In his congratulatory remark, Prof Odimayo said, it is with immense joy and respect that I extend my warmest congratulations to Your Royal Majesty on your esteemed appointment as Chairman, Council of Obas in Irele LGA. This prestigious position is a testament to your wisdom, leadership, and dedication to the preservation of our cherished traditions and heritage.

Your experience of legal background and sagacity have earned you this recognition, and we are confident that you will steer the Council with fairness, justice, and vision.

Prof Simidele Odimayo has also lauded the immediate past Chairman of the Obas Council, HRM Oba Olorunsola Akinyelure for His distinguished leadership and for fostering unity, progress and development in the traditional institution of Irele local government.

May your tenure be marked by peace, prosperity, and progress. May you continue to inspire and guide our communities, fostering unity and cooperation among our people. We pray that God Almighty bless you with wisdom, strength, and longevity.

We also extend our gratitude to the Council of Obas for entrusting Your Majesty with this leadership role. We are proud of this development and look forward to working together to promote the welfare of our people.

Once again, congratulations, Your Royal Majesty! May your reign be long and glorious.

E-signed:

Ben Ikuejamofo
Head of Media & Publicity: Office of the Special Adviser on Health to Ondo state Governor
7th March 2026

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Oba Oladele Fredrick Akinmoye, Ebiekuraju IV, the Orungberuwa of Erinje in Okitipupa Local Area of Ondo State arrives from his annual spiritual visit to Erinje ancestral home (Aluma) on Wednesday,12th November, 2025.

The monarch was welcomed by a large jubilant crowd at Obonde beach, Erinje at 10.30 am. The Kabiyesi and his Dosuns(High Chiefs) travelled to Aluma on the 5th of November and arrived safely on the 12th of November, 2025.

Addressing the large jubilant crowd, Oba Akinmoye said they had gone for the pilgrimage to Aluma to pray. He said in addition to praying for the good of their town, they also prayed for governments in the country.

He prayed God to grant the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, good health, strength and wisdom to make Nigeria great.

Similarly, the traditional ruler lauded Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for his welfarist policies and programmes, and prayed that God would sustain him to do more for the state.

The First Class Traditional Ruler thanked Governor Aiyedatiwa for the inclusion of Erinje in the community Townships Road project and prayed for its execution and completion.

The monarch used the opportunity to appeal to the Local and State governments to consider Erinje town in the provision of infrastructural facilities such as the extension of electricity to the new areas of the town, erosion control, township roads, youth and women empowerment etc.

He prayed for Obas in Ondo State that they would reign long on the stool of their forebears and may their kingdom be peaceful.

He praised Erinje Community Development Association(ECDA) and its Board of Trustees for their support and commitment to the development of Erinje town.

He equally prayed God to bless the sons and daughters of the town, so that they will continue to give back to the community.

He thanked God for the successful celebrations of the 2025 edition of the Aluma festival.

The post ONDO TRADITIONAL RULER, ORUNGBERUWA PRAYS FOR TINUBU, AIYADATIWA AT 2025 ALUWA FESTIVAL appeared first on Germane Reporters.

What seems to be a serious manipulation of rotational arrangement in ascension to the Gbogunron Chieftanicy,in Ilaje local government area of ondo state by the commissioner for Health has began to raise dust.

The Egharegbemi Royal family, a segment of the Gbogunron Aramufe dynasty, Idiogba Alagbon,in Ilaje Local Government, has on Monday dragged Dr. Banji Awolowo Ajaka, the Commissioner for health in the State, and his brother, Prince Olusola Joseph Ajaka before Okitipupa High Court over Gbogunron Chieftaincy.

The Egharegbemi Royal family represented by Prince Daniel Akintoye Atimiri, Chief Ojomo Opomulo and Engr. Beremoye Adeoye is claiming before the court that Dr. Banji Ajaka used his political connection to manipulate the rotational arrangement of ascension to the Gbogunron chieftaincy and installed his brother, Prince Olusola Joseph Ajaka as the Gbogunron and have him installed despite the fact that their father and their uncle, had ascended the throne in succession, thereby making the ascension of the Ajakas, (a segment of Neborisa) to the throne three consecutive times, and in a manner signifying perpetual succession to the throne.

The Egharegbemis are asserting that it is their representative, Prince Daniel Akintoye Atimiri duly endorsed by their segment, who is entitled to ascend the throne in line with the rotational arrangement but schemed out by Dr. Banji Ajaka.

In the court document, tagged ‘General Writ of Summons’, suit no: HCOK/29/CIV/2025, signed by the Egharegbemi family counsel, O. C. Oke, Esq., the Egharegbemi are praying the court among others, that the appointments/approval and installation of Prince Olusola Joseph Ajaka be voided; that the court should direct the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and the Governor of Ondo State to withdraw the instrument of appointment and staff of office from Prince Olusola Joseph Ajaka and issue same to Prince Daniel Akintoye Atimiri as the lawful candidate, entitled to ascend Gbogunron throne. At the time of this news report, the defendants in the case have been fully served and the court fire work is expected to begin soon, as the family of Gbogunron and the Ilaje Community look forward to the justice of the case.

A principal member of the Egharegbemi royal family who pleaded anonymity, informed us:
“We have been trampled upon like 18th century slaves by Dr Ajaka. He does not believe in family unity but his selfish interest.

He believes that because he has the Governor he can treat us as he likes.

The candidate for the throne by our family consensus is Prince Daniel but Dr. Ajaka used his political connection and supplanted him with his brother. As a family, we have resolved to fight this injustice with our last drop of blood.

This insult to our collective intelligence would not stand”.

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