A socio-political group in Ikole-Ekiti, Ekiti state, “Save Ikole Group” has sent a Save Our Soul (SOS) letter to Governor Biodun Oyebanji to intervene in the matter of long absence of Elekole of Ikole-Ekiti, Oba Adewumi Fasiku from the town.
A letter addressed to the Governor, Ekiti, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, his Deputy, Mrs Monisade Afuye, Ekiti Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr Folorunso Olabode, was signed by nine frontline group members.
The group alleged that the Royal father has been incapacitated by illness for about 29months, hence absent from his domain.
“The Royal father has not been seen in public, and it has been confirmed that he is no longer capable of defending, protecting and preserving the community.
The letter dated 11th September, has the heading, “Request for intervention in the matter of the long time absence of Elekole of Ikole-Ekiti from the town”
The letter was also addressed to the Lagos State and Diaspora chapters of the youth group.
The letter was signed by: Hon. Segun Adelugba, Chief Alaba Olanipekun, Mr. Benjamin Fatoye, Mr Mathew Makinde, Mr. Laisi Oguntuase, Mr. Funso Oguntuase, Mr. Tope Famoroti, Mr. Ademola Ogunjobi and Prince Taiwo Olominu
The group further alleged that the traditional ruler had left the palace since August 17, 2021, while his whereabout was not disclosed to the indigenes of Ikole-Ekiti ever since.
“His immediate family has not made any information about him available, thereby leaving the entire community without leadership, direction and control for over two years.
” Due to the royal father’s absence, there has been no development or growth of any kind in the recent past.
“There has been no coordinated efforts to harness individual moves aimed at improving the lot of the people to the detriment of the entire community.”
Also, the Lagos chapter in it’s own letter said: “we became fully aware of your recent letter addressed to the State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji about your concern on the continued absence of the Elekole of Ikole-Ekiti, Oba Adewumi Fasiku from his domain.
“We have noted that, according to your letter, you are merely playing a placatory cum interventionists’ role in this matter, the summary, appears to be geared towards engendering meaningful development, peace and progress in Ikole-Eliti.
“If our assumption is right. then, we wish to associate ourselves with this laudable goal and ipso facto, commend you all for this patriotism.
“However, we are of the opinion that we need to reach out to our highly respected Ikole Chiefs through the “Iwarefas” and the “Omo-ilus” through their Baba Egbe.
“Notwithstanding, a few of us have decided to also intervene, and Indeed, are already doing so, in order to prevent the situation from getting worse.
“We have since reached out to some Ikole Chiefs, Omo-ilus’ and stakeholders with a view to partnering with them to curtail the alleged misgivings.
“We are hereby appealing to you to sheath your swords and maintain peace and order in the town while robust efforts are on-going to address your observations and/or grievances.
“Needless to say that for Ikole-Ekiti to move forward, we must all join hands to ensure its respectability, pride and honour at all times.”
The Lagos chapter letter was signed by Messrs Fola Omalayo, Dare Oseni, Pastor Banji Filani, Mr. Bayode Ajayi and Dr. Seye Aderiye.
