The Igbore community in Abeokuta, Ogun State, has raised strong اعتراض over what it describes as a breach of agreement by the Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo concerning the appointment to the vacant Olori Parakoyi stool of Egbaland.
In a statement released by community leaders on Monday, the Igbore township accused the monarch of reneging on an earlier commitment made during a meeting with elders of the community.
According to the statement, the Alake had reportedly assured Igbore representatives of his support in ensuring that the traditional title, which is zoned to Igbore, would be filled by an indigenous candidate.
However, the community expressed disappointment over what it described as a recent move to appoint a non-indigene, Mr. Jonathan Oluwole Odekunle, to the position—an action they argue contravenes long-standing tradition and prior understanding.
The Olori Parakoyi stool is regarded by the community as a title historically and permanently reserved for indigenes of Igbore township. Community leaders insist that any deviation from this arrangement undermines established customs and threatens local heritage.
In response, the Igbore community, through its legal representatives, Justus A. Sokefun & Co., has formally initiated legal steps to challenge the development. A letter outlining their grievances and asserting their traditional rights has been sent to key authorities, including the Ogun State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Abeokuta South Local Government officials, the Alake of Egbaland, and other relevant stakeholders.
Signatories to the statement, Chief Imran Taiwo Jagunna and Chief Tajudeen Lemboye, emphasized that while the community remains open to dialogue, it is prepared to pursue all lawful and traditional avenues to protect its interests.
“The Olori Parakoyi title is permanently zoned to Igbore and must be occupied by a son of the community chosen by its people,” the statement read.
The development sets the stage for a potential legal and traditional dispute within Egbaland, as stakeholders watch closely for possible interventions or resolution efforts.
