The Head of Kingmakers in Irokoland and Otun Oniroko, Alhaji Kamardeen Osuade Adeniran, has firmly debunked reports circulating about an alleged urgency to fill the vacant Oniroko stool, describing such agitation as unlawful and driven by illicit motives.

In a strongly worded statement, the respected traditional figure cautioned individuals and groups spreading such narratives to immediately desist, stressing that the selection of a traditional ruler of the stature of the Oniroko must strictly follow laid down procedures and extant laws. He warned that any attempt to fast track the process outside constitutional provisions could destabilize the peace and unity long enjoyed in Irokoland.

Alhaji Adeniran lamented what he described as deliberate attempts to mislead the public and create unnecessary tension within the community.

He passionately appealed to the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr Seyi Makinde, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja, and the Executive Chairman of Akinyele Local Government, Akinwole Akinleye, all of whom he described as leaders known for their commitment to due process, not to succumb to what he termed “illicit calls for urgency.” He expressed confidence in the integrity of the Traditional Council of Ibadanland and Akinyele Local Government, affirming that they are working assiduously to ensure fairness, transparency, and justice in the selection process.

In his words, “The call for fast tracking or urgency is totally unlawful and illicit. I am not involved in such illegal call. The installation of a traditional ruler such as the Oniroko of Irokoland must follow due process. Any call to rush the process should be disregarded.” He categorically denied any knowledge of or participation in meetings or endorsements suggesting that a particular candidate had been selected. “I am the Head of Kingmakers. I do not remember signing any document to that effect, neither have I attended nor convened any gathering where anyone was endorsed,” he stated emphatically.

Addressing speculations surrounding the candidates, he clarified that two princes have been formally presented by the ruling families, Prince Kolapo Saheed Bolaji Fasanya Opeola and Prince Obasola Adeyemi Opeola , but maintained that no one has been endorsed or appointed. He described claims that Prince Obasola had been adopted as “absolute fallacy” and challenged anyone with proof of such endorsement to present credible evidence rather than engage in what he termed “mere talks.”

According to him, screening of candidates is ongoing, both parties have been duly invited by the appropriate authorities, and a date has already been fixed for further deliberations.

While acknowledging that the absence of a monarch on the revered stool is impacting the land, Alhaji Adeniran stressed that it does not justify cutting corners or breaching established protocols. He urged all stakeholders, including aspirants and their supporters, to remain calm and abide by the rules and regulations guiding the process. “Let it be on record that nobody has been endorsed. No government official, Traditional Council, or any authority has taken sides. The selection process must and will be followed to the letter,” he declared, warning that any attempt to secure installation through illegal means should be abandoned in the interest of peace, justice, and the collective progress of Irokoland.