The Governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke, has called on the newly installed Akire of Ikire, Oba Tajudeen Olanrewaju, to foster unity among his people and drive the town’s development.

Oba Olanrewaju ascended the throne following the passing of Oba Olatunde Falabi on February 27, 2026. His emergence comes after years of legal disputes and tensions over the succession to the Akire stool.

While presenting the staff of office in Ikire, Adeleke emphasized his administration’s commitment to due process, adherence to the rule of law, and respect for traditional institutions. He stated that the appointment followed the Terms of Settlement affirmed by the Court of Appeal in 2025.

The governor explained that the prolonged crisis dated back to earlier court rulings, including a Supreme Court judgment that nullified the claim of a previous ruling house. This led to an agreement among the five ruling houses, under the administration of Gboyega Oyetola, to rotate the stool, paving the way for the Aketula Ruling House to produce the next monarch.

He congratulated the new king, describing him as destined for the throne, and urged him to serve as a unifying figure for all indigenes of Ikire, both at home and abroad. Adeleke also encouraged the monarch to work closely with the government to promote growth and stability in Ikire, Irewole Local Government Area, and beyond.

In his response, Oba Olanrewaju expressed gratitude to the governor for ensuring peace in Ikire and pledged his commitment to supporting unity, development, and progress in the community and the state.