Recent developments in Oyo town, Nigeria, have turned a seemingly smooth succession process into a heated dispute. The Oyomesi, the traditional kingmakers, had initially selected Prince Lukuman Gbadegesin as the successor to the late Alaafin Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III. This selection was met with widespread approval until allegations of a flawed process emerged.
The selection was later rejected by Oyo State Governor Engr. Seyi Makinde, who cited concerns over the integrity of the process, leading to a prolonged crisis. The Prince, who was reportedly distressed by the rejection, found some solace in the support of his friends, but the controversy has persisted.
The Ladigbolu Ruling House has now weighed in with a stern letter to the state government, demanding that only Ifa divination, a traditional Yoruba method, be used to determine the new Alaafin. They argue that any deviation from this tradition is unacceptable and a violation of Yoruba customs.
As the conflict intensifies, the issue has stirred agitation and debate within the town and beyond, prompting a call for Yoruba communities worldwide to oppose any form of imposition they deem contrary to tradition.
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