Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Sikiru Obarayese
Published on 2024-02-29 18:41:30
Prince Ali Afolabi of Olubonku Ruling House in Iree, Boripe Local Government Area of Osun State, has raised concerns about alleged fraud and irregularities in the fresh election process for a new monarch. This comes after the state Governor issued a White Paper ordering a fresh selection process following the removal of the previous Aree of Iree, Oba Ademola Ponle, for violating due process.
In a letter dated February 26, 2024, addressed to the Commissioner for Local Government And Chieftaincy Affairs in Osun, Dosu Babatunde, Afolabi’s lawyer, Folorunso Apantaku, revealed that pending court cases have not been withdrawn as instructed in the White Paper due to court closures. Afolabi denounced the recent selection process that allegedly produced Prince Ibraheem Oyelakin as the Oba-elect, citing violations of chieftaincy laws and town tradition.
Afolabi pointed out that the selection procedure was flawed, with only two out of the six kingmakers participating in the election. He criticized the Boripe North Local Government for failing to appoint warrant chiefs to replace the vacant kingmakers, leading to an illegal and unacceptable exercise. Afolabi emphasized that a court injunction restrains any steps in the selection process until the court case is resolved.
A complaint letter from Apantaku to the Commissioner detailed the fraudulent practices in the election process, including the participation of non-authorized individuals in casting votes. Afolabi demanded the cancellation of the selection exercise, urging the government to uphold the rule of law and comply with the court order.
The letter also highlighted the failure of the local government to follow proper procedures in filling the vacant kingmaker positions and selling election forms while court cases were ongoing. Afolabi urged the Commissioner to intervene and rectify the illegal selection process that disregards the court order.
Despite attempts to contact the Commissioner and the Local Government Area chairman for comments on the matter, no response has been received at this time. The unresolved dispute over the selection of the new Aree of Iree raises concerns about the integrity of the chieftaincy process and the adherence to legal procedures.
In conclusion, Prince Ali Afolabi’s allegations of fraud and irregularities in the selection process for the new Aree of Iree highlight the need for transparency, accountability, and adherence to the rule of law in traditional leadership transitions. The state government is called upon to investigate the matter thoroughly and ensure that the selection of a new monarch aligns with established legal guidelines and traditions.
Read the original article on Nigerian Tribune
