Tensions are escalating between the Laribikusi and Akalako ruling houses in Eruwa, Ibarapa East Local Government Area of Oyo State, as they vie for control over the next Eleruwa.
The Laribikusi Ruling House has firmly stated that there was no deadline for presenting a family head, a crucial step in the succession process.
The declaration came during the formal presentation of their family head, Pa Dejo Akinlade, in a letter delivered to the local government, Kareem Arogungade.
The letter was received by the chairman’s Personal Assistant, Lukman Akintola, who acknowledged the family’s submission.
In the document, Pa Akinlade rejected claims circulating in some quarters regarding a supposed deadline for presenting the family head, emphasising that the Laribikusi family has met all necessary conditions outlined in the 1957 Eruwa Chieftaincy Declaration.
He expressed surprise and confusion regarding the focus on the family head’s appointment at this juncture, noting that discussions about a 14-day ultimatum are premature.
The Laribikusi family is one of two ruling houses entitled to the throne, alongside the Akalako family, as specified in the chieftaincy declaration.
The recent dethronement of the immediate-past Eleruwa, Oba Samuel Adegbola, by a Supreme Court ruling in 2019, has further complicated the situation, as both families vie for the opportunity to install a new monarch.
He refuted these claims, clarifying that the chairman of the local government has scheduled another meeting for Thursday, aimed at promoting transparency in the appointment process.
The Laribikusi family has formally appealed to Governor Seyi Makinde to ensure that the selection process for the new Eleruwa is conducted transparently and fairly, hoping to quell the rising tensions and ensure a smooth transition of power.
Daily Post / Naomi Akinkunle
