Aramoko-Ekiti Residents Reject Kingship Selection Restart

Residents of Aramoko-Ekiti, led by the Oduduwa Citizen Liberation Vanguard, have opposed a plan to restart the selection process for a new Alara of Aramoko-Ekiti after the death of Oba Adegoke Adeyemi in August 2025. The group, represented by Coordinator Korede Olanipekun and Secretary Abiola Kupolati, urged Governor Biodun Oyebanji to allow the ongoing selection process to continue as per the Ekiti State Chieftaincy Declaration (2024).

They reported that eight contestants from the Olokun Ruling House participated in the selection, which included screening, Ifa divination, and voting by 12 recognized kingmakers. The voting resulted in a deadlock between Princes Oluwafemi Akinlabi and Tope Ademiluyi, each receiving six votes, while Prince Adewumi Adetoyinbo received none.

The group alleged that some government officials were attempting to undermine the kingmakers' role by initiating another Ifa consultation to favor a preferred candidate. They warned that any deviation from the established process could lead to litigation and community tension.