Indigenes of a Community in Ekiti State are currently fighting their ‘born again’ King, who refused to perform traditional rites.
Oba Dare Gabriel Olajide, the ‘born again’ King who was given two months to reconcile with his subjects by the State government, was also accused of destroying Ifa symbols and instruments of installation, absconding from the community and cancellation of the meetings of chiefs.
However a statement signed by the Special Assistant (Media) to the Deputy Governor, Odunayo Ogunmola, revealed that a peace meeting was organized and attended by the Oore of Otun-Ekiti and Paramount Ruler of Moba land, Oba Adedapo Popoola and Isaoye traditional chiefs.
Deputy Governor of the State, Otunba Bisi Egbeyemi who expressed dissatisfaction over the series of allegations levelled against the king, wondered how a whole community would turn against their king.
While reacting to Oba Olajide’s alleged refusal to respect the tradition of his community, Egbeyemi said:
“You that accepted that you want to be king, you should know that there are traditions that needed to be observed.
“There is nothing good about all that was reported about you. I see no reason why you should go against your people, I am appealing to them now, go and do what they ask you to do.
“You have till the end of February. If you cannot follow the path of peace and secure the interest of your people, everything is left to you.
“I cannot depose you and I cannot ask them to depose you mine is to ensure that there is peace in your community. We cannot force you on them, you have been given the chance to make amendment and redeem your image.
“Don’t go on a journey of self destruction. If you claimed that you are serving God we are all serving God, you cannot be more Catholic than the Pope.
“I will not support that a king be deposed, I plead with you Kabiyesi, Obasaoye go and make peace with the people of your town.”
However the King who denied the allegations against him by his subjects, claimed that he was passionate about moving the community forward. This came after Oba Popoola, revealed that Obasaoye flagrantly turned down the advice given to him by the Council
Dear Editor,
Kindly note that there is no ‘Paramount Ruler of Mobaland’. The Oore – highly revered and honoured, is just a Primus inter pares with the Obaleo of Erinmope-Ekiti. As you ought to know, the paramountcy of any king is not beyond the boundaries of his town or village in Mobaland.
May there be peace, and may peace continue, in the said Isaoye, in Mobaland, in the entire Ekiti State, and indeed, in the whole nation, Nigeria, our country.
Thank you.