Ekiti State Appoints New Owa of Oke-Ako After Decades-Long Vacancy

The Ekiti State Executive Council has endorsed Prince Bamidele Olanrewaju Oni to assume the position of Owa of Oke-Ako Ekiti, located within Ikole Local Government Area. During the council gathering convened on Tuesday, August 18, Governor Biodun Oyebanji led proceedings where this approval was granted.

Commissioner for Information Taiwo Olatunbosun released a statement confirming the endorsement. By filling this role, Prince Oni ends an extended period throughout which the community operated without a substantive traditional ruler.

Beginning in 2000, the traditional stool remained vacant following succession conflicts and years of litigation through the courts. The unoccupied duration spanned either 25 or 26 years, reflecting continuous vacancy from the early 2000s into 2026.

Breaking through this long-standing impasse involved achieving a Supreme Court ruling alongside a Memorandum of Understanding negotiated among pertinent stakeholders within the locality. With Prince Oni now installed, Oke-Ako Ekiti's chieftaincy institution can be revitalized following more than two decades absent formal traditional governance.

His elevation aims to strengthen bonds of unity within the community while promoting regional stability. The state's established regulatory framework for recognizing traditional authority in Ekiti ensured the appointment received formal sanction through proper governmental channels.

At its sixth gathering in 2026, the council formally documented Prince Oni's selection. Through Wednesday's statement by Commissioner Olatunbosun, Governor Oyebanji's administration confirmed completion of all necessary approvals.

Public communications regarding the action disclosed no further details regarding the prince's personal history or specific terms contained within the negotiated Understanding between local parties.