Tensions rise in the Iree community of Osun State due to the appointment of two monarchs. The former governor, Adegboyega Oyetola, had named Oba Ademola Ponle as the ruler.
However, the current Governor, Ademola Adeleke, suspended Ponle’s appointment and initiated a review.
Subsequently, a White Paper was released, and a new selection process was conducted, leading to the appointment of Prince Muritala Oyelakin from the Oyekun lineage as the new Aare of Iree.
The investiture of the Oba-elect began with visits to significant locations in Iree, accompanied by community leaders. Controversy arose when the community leaders allegedly forced entry into the seclusion house, a sacred site locked since Oba Ponle’s appointment.
The community experienced unrest marked by gunfire during the ceremonies for Oba Oyelakin. The chief kingmaker, Asalu of Iree, Chief Taiwo Oguntobi, expressed his disapproval, stating that the legitimate rites were bypassed and that Oba Ponle remains the rightful king.
“I am the head of the traditionalists in Iree town, I am not part of the process for the selection of the new king appointed by the government.
“The traditional rites for any king should commence from the deity that I am in charge of but nothing of such. They used cutlasses to break into the house of Odofin(seclusion) today. The family of Odofin were opposed to that.
“We, the representatives of the community who ought to be there are not present for any rites for the newly appointed king. If they want to make anybody king in Iree, Asanlu, Odofin and Olu-Ode must be present.
“The Oogboni, Olosun group must be represented, including the six Iwarafara. But with this new king, nothing of such, none of these people were present.
“The authentic king for Iree town is Oba Ademola Ponle, we all supported him. We have performed all rites for him any other person aside from him is fake. The rite that authenticates king has been given to Oba Ponle, and another one can’t be reproduced unless he dies.”
In contrast, Oba Oyelakin asserts his legitimacy, claiming the support of traditional chiefs and community members during the rites.
“After the government appointed me, I entered the town yesterday, I came with many people into the town. I went round the town to register my presence. I informed the kingmakers. We started the rite at Asalu deity where all traditional chiefs were present including the Iwaramefa. I slept at one of the places of the rite with the chiefs from 10 pm to 10 am.
“The rites were witnessed by sons and daughters of the Iree community. The President of the Iree Progressive Union was also present. The rite was led by the Odofin of the town.
” I visited the Odofin house, but I did not enter, I just step my feet at the entrance three times. There was no crisis in town at all, the residents were happy about my appointment. The gunshots are just part of our tradition. I have plans to bring investors into the town.”
Oba Ponle maintains his claim to the throne, holding the official regalia and instruments of kingship.
“I am the authentic king of Iree, I have all the instruments of office with me.”
