Oyebanji Installs New Owa of Oke-Ako After 25 Years

On Monday, Governor Biodun Oyebanji installed Oba Bamidele Oni as the new Owa of Oke-Ako in Ikole Local Government Area, Ekiti State, after a vacancy of over 25 years. The state government approved Oni's appointment the previous week.

The installation ceremony was represented by Deputy Governor Monisade Afuye, who congratulated the community for overcoming the challenges of the long interregnum. Oyebanji emphasized the importance of peace, unity, and collaboration with the new monarch to foster development in Oke-Ako.

He noted that the prolonged legal battles following the death of the previous monarch, Oba Omotayo Ogunbiyi, on December 10, 2000, hindered the selection process. The Commissioner for Chieftaincy and Home Affairs, Ojo Atibioke, confirmed that the selection of Oba Oni was conducted according to state law and local customs, involving four candidates and a process free from manipulation.