Indigenes of Idanre Kingdom in Ondo State have appealed to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to urgently resume and conclude the selection process for a new Owa of Idanre following months of uncertainty surrounding the traditional stool.
The appeal comes amid growing concerns from the family of the late Owa of Idanre, Oba Frederick Aroloye, over alleged attempts by some government officials to influence the succession process.
Earlier this year, the family, through its counsel, Akinyemi Omoware, submitted a petition alleging moves to undermine the established chieftaincy declaration by imposing an ineligible candidate on the community. The family also accused some state officials of conniving to manipulate the process, warning that such actions could trigger unrest in the ancient kingdom.
In a letter dated May 7 and addressed to Governor Aiyedatiwa, the Idanre Development Assembly expressed dissatisfaction over the prolonged vacancy of the throne since the monarch’s death on July 31, 2024.
The community noted that the situation worsened after the death of the Regent and Lisa of Idanre, Christopher Akindolire, on May 1, 2025.
The letter, jointly signed by the President-General of the Assembly, Anthony Omolola, and the Secretary-General, Oluropo Akinfala, highlighted the social and economic impact of the leadership vacuum on residents.
According to the group, traders and market women have been severely affected following the relocation of markets to locations described as unsafe and unsuitable for business activities.
“The market women and men are worse hit by the hardship, with the relocation of market places to areas that are not conducive and dangerous for their merchandise,” the letter stated.
The assembly further claimed that several road accidents, including fatal cases, had occurred around the affected market areas.
The indigenes revealed that the selection process for a new monarch had reached an advanced stage before it was suspended by the state government. Kingmakers were reportedly set to meet publicly under the supervision of local government officials to elect a new Owa before the process was halted.
They added that the suspension denied the kingdom the guidance and experience of the late Regent, Mr. Akindolire, while also increasing tension within the community.
The group, however, urged Governor Aiyedatiwa to approve a date within May for the completion of the selection process in order to restore peace, stability, and economic activities in the kingdom.
