Equity and Fairness: Ofokutu Royal Family Appeals to Agba Ijesa on Owa Obokun Selection
AGBA IJESA/Nigeria: The Ofokutu Royal Family of the Bilaro Oluodo Ruling House has called on the Agba Ijesa of Ijesaland to uphold the principles of equity, fairness, and tradition in the selection of the next Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesaland.
In a letter signed by its secretary, Prince Adetoyese Adegbohungbe, the family urged the Agba Ijesa to ensure that the Ajimoko-Haastrup Royal Family, which has dominated the throne for over 125 years, refrains from participating in the ongoing selection process. The family contended that allowing the Ajimoko-Haastrup Dynasty to produce another Owa Obokun would not only undermine fairness but also marginalize other royal families within the ruling house.
The letter highlighted historical precedents, noting that the last two Owa Obokuns from the Bilaro Oluodo Ruling House were both from the Ajimoko-Haastrup Royal Family. It referenced the reign of Fredrick Kumokun Adedeji Haastrup, who ascended the throne as Owa Ajimoko I in April 1896 and ruled until September 1901, and Adejumola Alexander Haastrup, who became Owa Ajimoko II “Fidipote” in 1942 and reigned until October 1956.
“We wish to bring the following points to your kind attention,” the letter read. “The Bilaro Oluodo Ruling House has held consistent monthly meetings for over 40 years, attended exclusively by members of the Ofokutu and Ajimoko-Haastrup Royal Families. Despite appeals for equity and fairness within the three ruling houses, the Ajimoko-Haastrup Royal Family continues to push for participation in the selection process.”
The Ofokutu Royal Family further expressed concerns that any decision to allow a candidate from the Ajimoko-Haastrup Dynasty would effectively marginalize other families in the ruling house, including the Adeyemi, Adebusuyi, Adegbohungbe, Obembe, and Osundaunsi-Adeyokunnu branches.
As custodians of Ijesaland’s traditions, the family appealed to the Agba Ijesa and the Afobajes (kingmakers) to ensure a fair and inclusive process, emphasizing that upholding these principles is crucial for maintaining harmony and unity within the community.
