A Non-Governmental Organisation, the Kayode Michael Arimoro Foundation has called on the king makers in Ijesha land in Osun State, as well as the state and Federal Governments, to approach the selection of a new Owa Obokun of Ijesha land with wisdom and reverence, following the death of the former Owa Obokun, Adekunle Aromolaran.
The NGO also called for a peaceful selection process to avoid rancour and bloodshed.
The call was made in a statement on Saturday, titled “Tribute to Owa Aromolaran and Call for a Peaceful Selection of the New Owa Obokun of Ijesha Land” while paying tribute to the late monarch.
The first-class Osun monarch’s demise was announced in a statement on September 12, 2024, signed by the Asiwaju of Ijesaland, Chief Yinka Fasuyi, in Osogbo, the state capital.
The statement read, “We at The Kayode Michael Arimoro Foundation, an NGO whose core calling is providing support to widows, girl child education, and child education generally, with the belief that all humans must live above a globally acceptable sustainable Human Existence Index, wish to commiserate with our founder, Prince Kayode Michael Adewale Arimoro and all the people of Ijesha Land over the recent joining of his ancestors by the Owa Obokun, Adekunle Aromolaran, the revered leader and custodian of tradition in Ijesha Land.
“Our Foundation has meticulously followed the way the late Owa Obokun profoundly impacted Ijesha Land. As we proudly reflect on his legacy, we honour his exemplary service, dedication, and unparalleled commitment to the peace and unity of everyone across the globe. His unassailable vision for the progress of all Ijesha sons and daughters and Nigerians as a whole shall remain evergreen in the people’s hearts.
“In the light of this transition, our Foundation, urges all stakeholders, including the state government, Federal Government, and members of our own Bilaro Ruling House to approach the selection of a new Owa Obokun with wisdom and reverence in consonance with the historical traditions of Ijesha Land. The kingmakers must be allowed to fulfil their responsibilities in selecting a young successor that has the vision, drive, exposure and charisma to sustain the people’s values, heritage, and aspirations.
“Historically, the throne of Owa Obokun has been a symbol of unity and strength, which explains why The Great Prince and Warrior son of Owa Ofokutu, Prince Farotimi Okunade, a.k.a. Arimoro, recommended his younger kith and kin in his stead as the Owa Obokun of Ijesha Land in 1896. Therefore, it is vital to adhere to the principles of fair rotation within the Owa Bilaro family, while ensuring that the sanctity of selection processes reflects the collective spirit of our community, characterised by unity of purpose, courage and enlightenment.”
The NGO stressed that dialogue must be prioritised in the selection process to ensure that the atmosphere is peaceful, stating that this period is a crucial one.
“Dialogue should be prioritised to ensure cooperation among all members of the Bilaro Ruling House to foster an atmosphere of peace during this crucial period. We call upon every community member to engage in respectful discussions and act with patience and decorum as Ijesha Lans navigates this critical time.
“We urge all stakeholders to come together to honour the legacy of Owa Obokun Adekunle Aromolaran by seeking a new leader with a track record of ability to chart a pathway of a prosperous future for Ijesha sons and daughters. May the memory of Owa Aromolaran inspire all Ijeshans to work collectively toward peace and understanding, ensuring a smooth transition after the Great Owa is given a befitting and memorable final rites,” the statement added.
