Governor Oyebanji installs Ekiti community monarch after 25-year vacancy

Jubilation erupted in Oke Ako, Ekiti State, as Governor Biodun Oyebanji officially installed Oba Bamidele Olanrewaju as the new Owa of Oke-Ako, filling the traditional stool vacant for over 25 years. The governor, represented by his deputy Monisade Afuye, presented the Staff of Office and Instrument of Appointment to the monarch, who hails from the Oke Aofin Royal Dynasty. Governor Oyebanji congratulated the community on this "victory at last," urging them to embrace peace, unity, and love to make up for lost time and foster development. He cautioned against internal strife and encouraged other contestants to collaborate with the new ruler.

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I want to congratulate all of you today on this glorious moment. This, to us, is victory at last. You didn’t have a traditional ruler for over 25 years, but today, you are celebrating one after overcoming all past challenges.

The lengthy interregnum, marked by legal disputes, had prevented the enthronement of a new monarch since the demise of Oba Omotayo Ogunbiyi in December 2000. The governor commended the Regent, Tinuade Ogunbiyi-Adebayo, for presiding over the community for over two decades and praised the town's residents for their continued support of progressive leadership. He urged them to extend this spirit to working with Oba Olanrewaju to attract development to Oke Ako and restore its former glory.

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I want you to look at the back, take stock and look for way to make up for the lost grounds. The best way for you to do this is by allowing peace, unity and love. No town can develop without these.

In his acceptance speech, the new monarch expressed gratitude to the state government, kingmakers, and royal families for the installation. Oba Olanrewaju promised to justify the confidence placed in him and acknowledged the governor's role in resolving the long-standing issue through due process, patience, and commitment. He assured the people of Oke Ako that he would work diligently to unite them and foster prosperity, cooperation, and progress for the benefit of all.

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I must acknowledge you specifically. What this government did for this community by resolving a matter that had lingered for over 25 years was impressive. The governor did this through due process, patience, and genuine commitment to doing what was right for Oke-Ako community. We are grateful. I am personally grateful.