Ekiti Appoints Prince Olarewaju Oni as New Monarch

The Ekiti State Government has officially appointed Prince Olarewaju Oni as the Owa of Oke-Ako Ekiti in Ikole Local Government Area, a decision made during a meeting of the Ekiti State Executive Council led by Governor Biodun Oyebanji on Tuesday. This appointment concludes a 25-year chieftaincy dispute, during which the community lacked a substantive monarch.

The Commissioner for Information, Taiwo Olatunbosun, stated that the appointment is expected to restore the traditional institution and foster unity, stability, and development. The Owa of Oke-Ako Ekiti is governed by a Chieftaincy Declaration that allows for rotation between two Ruling Houses: Aofin and Okediosan.

Following a Supreme Court judgment on December 19, 2025, which affirmed the eligibility of all male members from three stocks within the Aofin Ruling House to contest, stakeholders reached a Memorandum of Understanding to ensure equity. Prince Oni emerged as the unanimous choice of the kingmakers, marking a significant milestone for the community.