Aramoko‑Ekiti urges Ooni of Ife to press Governor Oyebanji to finish Alara selection

Aramoko‑Ekiti seeks Ooni’s help to resolve Alara vacancy

Inhabitants of Aramoko-Ekiti, which serves as the administrative center for the Ekiti West Local Government Area, have officially requested that Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ife, step in to facilitate discussions with Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji in order to finalize the appointment of a new Alara. This petition was released on Monday, 26 October 2026, by High Chief Julius Adebayo, who leads the Kingmakers, and his secretary, High Chief Kolade Oyebade.

The Alara stool became vacant after the death of Oba Adegoke Adeyemi in August 2025. Since then the process of choosing a successor has been stalled. The Kingmakers’ statement says that the 12 traditional rulers were unable to choose a candidate from the three shortlisted princes, resulting in a 6‑6 tie in the first round of voting. A second round was required, but the exercise has been suspended for about six months.

The community’s letter to the state government has not been answered. The governing body reported that the lack of a ruler is hindering cultural events, noting that the younger generation is becoming agitated and that customary ceremonies and rituals are unable to take place. They therefore appeal to the Ooni, who they view as the custodian of Yoruba culture, to plead with Governor Oyebanji for permission to reconvene.

Background

Aramoko‑Ekiti was founded by descendants of Oduduwa and maintains a strong cultural and spiritual link with Ile‑Ife. The process for choosing the Alara is regulated by the Alara of Aramoko Chieftaincy Declaration alongside the Ekiti State Chieftaincy Law. In April 2026, after an Ifa consultation conducted by Baba Araba Elebuibon, three princes were shortlisted. The 12 kingmakers voted, ending in a tie that necessitated a second round. The Commissioner for Chieftaincy Affairs postponed the exercise, and no further voting has taken place.

In a document signed by Chief Asao, the head of the Kingmakers, and Chief Sajowa, the secretary, the group stressed that the Ooni's involvement could foster a peaceful resolution and strengthen the long-standing bond between Aramoko-Ekiti and Ile-Ife.

Why it matters

The extended absence of an Alara has left Aramoko-Ekiti without a traditional authority figure, causing interruptions to the customary festivals and rituals that are fundamental to the community's character. The community’s appeal highlights concerns that the lack of a monarch is causing unrest among the youth and hindering cultural celebrations. The council expresses confidence that the Ooni’s involvement could prompt the governor to allow the kingmakers to reconvene, thereby restoring normalcy to the town’s traditional governance.

What happens next

The sources do not indicate any specific dates or further actions beyond the appeal. The council has sent letters to the state government and is awaiting a response. The Ooni’s potential intervention remains the only next step mentioned, with the hope that it will persuade Governor Oyebanji to permit the kingmakers to complete the selection process.