Ekiti State Appoints New Monarch After 26-Year Vacancy

The Ekiti State Government has appointed Prince Bamidele Olanrewaju Oni as the new Owa of Oke-Ako Ekiti, ending a 26-year vacancy in the traditional leadership position. This decision was made during a State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Biodun Oyebanji, as stated by Commissioner for Information, Taiwo Olatunbosun.

The Owa position had been unoccupied since 2000 due to disputes and litigation regarding the succession process. The chieftaincy is governed by a declaration from the Oyewole Chieftaincy Review Commission, which stipulates a rotation between two ruling houses, Aofin and Okediosan.

Following a Supreme Court judgment on December 19, 2025, stakeholders reached a Memorandum of Understanding to ensure equity in the selection process. Prince Oni was selected through a traditional process, including Ifa divination, and was declared the Owa-elect.

Born on March 2, 1974, he holds a Higher National Diploma in Business Administration and Management from the Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti. The government expects his appointment to foster unity and development in the community.