Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, on Thursday presented the staff of office to the newly installed Elemure of Emure-Ekiti, Oba Babatunde Ajiboye, calling on aggrieved contenders to the throne to withdraw their court cases and support the new monarch for the sake of peace and development.
Speaking at the installation ceremony held in Emure-Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji, represented by his deputy, Monisade Afuye, emphasised that the state government did not interfere in the traditional selection process, which followed due customs and procedures.
The stool became vacant after the death of the former monarch, Oba Emmanuel Adebayo, on May 20, 2024.
Oba Adebayo, a retired assistant inspector general of police, was widely respected and left a legacy of peace and development.
Oyebanji urged residents and indigenes of the town to prioritise unity and progress over personal grievances, cautioning that prolonged litigations could disrupt the harmony of the community.
“I want to appeal to those who have instituted cases in court to challenge the selection process to withdraw them and join hands with the new Oba to develop this town,” he said.
“The development, peace and unity of this kingdom and its respect should be paramount to all of you, not the removal of the traditional ruler.”
He added that the government expedited the approval of the new Elemure to prevent a leadership vacuum in the revered first-class kingdom, which boasts a rich cultural heritage and strategic importance in Ekiti South Senatorial District.
Oyebanji reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting traditional institutions and pledged to collaborate with the new monarch to bring development to the area, including tackling the challenge of insecurity.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Babatunde Ajiboye expressed gratitude to the state government and kingmakers for conducting a transparent and fair selection process. He extended an olive branch to his fellow contestants, urging them to work with him in unity for the good of Emure.
“It is my appeal to my brothers who contested against me to join me in the task of developing this town,” Oba Ajiboye said.
“We have no other town to call ours. I am focused on my passion for development, and I will not be distracted.”
He also pledged to work closely with security agencies and the government to ensure lasting peace and stability in the town and surrounding communities.
The Elemure stool is one of Ekiti State’s most prominent traditional thrones and holds significant historical and cultural importance in the state’s traditional hierarchy.
