A traditional ruler in Surulere local government area of Oyo state, the Aresaadu of Iresaadu, Oba Abraham Olafimihan Adeyeye has sought intervention of governor Seyi Makinde over alleged injustice meted on him by a particular government ministry in the state.
He lamented that despite approval of his appointment and presentation of instrument of office by the governor in May 24, 2019, as the Aresaadu of Iresaadu, yet, the ministry still refuse to recognised him as the monarch of the town, and also denied him of his entitlements.
Stephen Raji, who is the lawyer to the monarch, who addressed journalists on behalf of the monarch, urged Makinde to as a matter of urgency constitute a committee to look into the matter before it get out of hands.
He said the implication of the injustice if allowed to materialised will give rise to chaos and unrest in the community.
Raji urged Makinde to step in and investigate the matter to ensure justice prevail, adding that the monarch should be fully recognised and compensated with his arrears accordingly.
He said: “Recent events in Iresaadu, Oyo State, have highlighted a disturbing issue that threatens the very fabric of justice and peace in the state.
“Despite the governor’s untiring efforts to uphold the rule of law and fairness in governance, matters of the traditional institution inclusive, it has become evident that certain individuals are working to subvert the noble efforts of the governor.
“HRM Oba Abrahan Olafimiban Adeyeye Oyerinde’s appointment was approved by the State Government on May 24, 2019 as the Aresaadu of Iresaadu, after compliance with due process in the selection process.
“However, it has come to light that a senior official’s surreptitious roles have unduly interfered with the necessary recognition being accorded the Oba and payment of his entitlements.
“Initially, it was thought that the crisis brewed because of the transition of government from one party to another, but the governor has demonstrated beyond reasonable doubt that partisanship doesn’t influence his decisions on matters of public interest.
“In several letters, including the ones dated 4th May 2020 and 7 May 2021, Oba Abraham Olafimihan Adeyeye Oyerinde raised serious concerns about the unjust withholding of recognition and payment of his entitlements despite multiple court judgments delivered in his favour.
“Many of these letters were not allowed to get to the table of the governor and the only one that got the attention of Governor Makinde promptly treated with a clear directive that the issue be promptly investigated.
“This directive has not been carried out till date. Also, the Honourable Attoney General and Commissioner of Justice has issued three legal advice recommending the immediate payment of the entitlements of the Aresaadu of Iresaadu and according him recognition as an Oba, yet there has been no compliance from the Ministry.”
