The Ekiti State Government has dismissed claims linking it to the alleged dethronement of the Alayegunle of Ayegunle Ekiti, HRH Oba Folorunso Aderiye, describing the rumour as false and misleading.
In a statement issued by the Special Assistant on Media to the Deputy Governor, Mr. Victor Ogunje, the government clarified that the reported crisis involving the monarch is an internal dispute between Oba Aderiye and some of his chiefs, and not an action sanctioned by Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration.
Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs.) Monisade Afuye, who made the clarification, said the matter was already being handled with caution to prevent it from escalating into a major conflict.
“Our attention has been drawn to the baseless rumour circulating that the Ekiti State Government orchestrated the removal of the Alayegunle of Ayegunle Ekiti, Oba Folorunso Aderiye,” Afuye said.
“We state with all sense of responsibility that Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration has no involvement in the said development. The situation appears to be the result of a prolonged internal disagreement between the monarch and some chiefs, which the government is carefully addressing.”
She warned those spreading the rumour to desist from actions that could incite tension, stressing that the Oyebanji-led government holds the traditional institution in high regard and would never undermine its integrity.
“Governor Oyebanji is a strong advocate of peace, unity, and the sanctity of the traditional institution. He would not be part of any act that could bring the royal stool into disrepute,” she added.
The Deputy Governor further emphasised the administration’s commitment to fostering harmony in communities across the state and noted that efforts are underway to engage all stakeholders in Ayegunle Ekiti to restore peace.
“The government has reached out to key stakeholders in the community to de-escalate tensions and ensure lasting peace,” she concluded.
