Orangun Disowns Alleged Adeleke Endorsement, Backs Ajagunla’s Development Record

The Orangun of Ila-Orangun, His Royal Majesty, Oba Abdulwahab Kayode Adedotun Bibire II, has distanced himself and the traditional institution from a purported endorsement of Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke’s second-term bid, insisting that no delegation was authorised by the palace to visit the governor.

In a press statement issued by the palace on Sunday, the monarch described as “false and misleading” claims contained in a July 18 press release by the Osun State Ministry of Information and Public Enlightenment that high chiefs of Ila-Orangun, acting on his directive, paid a solidarity visit to Governor Adeleke and pledged the support of the Ila people ahead of the August 15 governorship election.

The monarch maintained that neither the palace nor the people of Ila-Orangun should be associated with the reported endorsement, stressing that the throne remains neutral in partisan politics.

“I did not authorise, direct or send any delegation to Governor Ademola Adeleke on behalf of the palace or the people of Ila-Orangun. The visit was carried out without my knowledge, consultation or approval, and it must not be interpreted as the position of the Orangun stool,” the statement quoted the monarch as saying.

According to the palace, the chiefs and individuals who participated in the visit acted in their personal capacities and not on behalf of the traditional institution.

“Those who participated in the visit acted solely in pursuit of their personal interests. Their actions neither represent the palace nor reflect the collective position of the good people of Ila-Orangun,” the monarch stated.

The royal father also warned political actors against dragging traditional institutions into partisan contests, cautioning that such actions could heighten political tension and undermine peace in the state.

“Traditional institutions must never be used as instruments for political manipulation. Politicians should refrain from exploiting revered royal institutions in ways capable of creating unnecessary tension or violence,” he warned.

Oba Bibire disclosed that although chiefs have the freedom to express personal opinions, they must not invoke the authority of the throne without express approval.

He added that appropriate internal measures were already being taken to address the conduct of the chiefs involved in the alleged unauthorised visit.

“No chief has the authority to speak in the name of the throne without clear authorisation. Necessary corrective measures are being taken to ensure that this unfortunate incident does not reoccur,” he said.

The statement also used the opportunity to commend the lawmaker representing Osun Central Senatorial District, Senator Olubiyi Fadeyi Ajagunla, describing him as a worthy son of Ila-Orangun whose developmental contributions to the community remain visible.

The monarch listed several projects credited to the senator, including initiating the dualisation of the Ila-Orangun township road, facilitating presidential approval for the 132kVA/60MVA electricity substation expected to benefit six local government areas, and establishing the Ajagunla Radio Station.

“Senator Olubiyi Fadeyi Ajagunla has demonstrated uncommon commitment to the development of Ila-Orangun. His visible projects and enduring legacies have earned him the respect and appreciation of his people,” the monarch was quoted as saying.

While clarifying that the dual carriage road was originally initiated through Senator Ajagunla’s efforts, the royal father nevertheless commended Governor Adeleke for completing and commissioning the project.

“Credit must also be given to Governor Ademola Adeleke for completing and commissioning the road project. Development should always be acknowledged irrespective of political differences,” the statement added.

With the Osun governorship election scheduled for August 15, the monarch appealed to political stakeholders and residents to conduct themselves peacefully before, during and after the poll.

“The peace, unity and progress of Osun State must remain paramount. I urge politicians and their supporters to shun violence and allow the people to exercise their democratic rights in an atmosphere of peace,”** the royal father said.

The palace reiterated that the Orangun of Ila-Orangun remains a non-partisan father to all and urged the public to disregard any claim suggesting that the traditional institution had endorsed any governorship candidate.

The statement was jointly endorsed by High Chief Elemona, High Chief Ejemu, High Chief Odode and High Chief Osolo.