Adeleke Jets Out on Vacation, Orders Probe into Koka Obaship Dispute
By Waliu Adetokun, Osogbo
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has travelled out of the country for a vacation and medical checks, even as he directed the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to investigate the emerging kingship dispute in Koka Ilase, Obokun Local Government Area of the state.
In a statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, said Adeleke departed the country through the Lagos airport on Sunday for the United Kingdom and other destinations to be announced later.
The governor said the vacation would enable him to refresh and prepare for the responsibilities ahead.
“I am taking a short break to refresh and get further prepared to serve the good people of Osun State,” Adeleke said while departing from the Lagos airport.
The governor also directed the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to investigate the circumstances surrounding the reported appointment of another king for Koka Ilase, which has reportedly led to two persons laying claim to the traditional stool.
He asked the ministry to review the situation and ensure that due process was followed in line with the state’s chieftaincy laws, regulations and the traditions of the people.
“I read of another King appointed outside the one on the stool. The ministry is hereby directed to look into the dispute and issue a report to set the records straight,” Adeleke said.
The governor appealed to all stakeholders in the dispute to remain calm and peaceful while the ministry carries out the investigation.
“I however urge all stakeholders to remain peaceful as the ministry does the needful. Kingship is governed by extant laws and regulations and the government will stand by the law and tradition of our people,” he said.
The investigation is expected to clarify the circumstances surrounding the reported appointment and determine the appropriate steps in accordance with the relevant laws and traditional practices.