IResidents of Irun Akoko have called on Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa to reject any attempt to recognise Hon. Olanrewaju Adeyemi as the “Owa Adimula” of a non-existent Oke-Oro community.
The plea was made on Thursday during a press conference in Akure by Chief Paul Oguntimehin, Asiwaju of Irun, and Barrister Olusegun Adu Peters, speaking on behalf of Oba Bayode Agboola, the Onirun of Irun, his chiefs, and the community.
Barrister Adu Peters said Adeyemi’s request is illegal and is currently being challenged in suit number HCIK/20/CIV/2025 before Justice B. J. Akinwumi at the Ondo State High Court in Ikare Akoko.
He added, “We urge the governor to reject any submission seeking approval for the so-called ‘Owa Adimula’ title or the non-existent ‘Oke-Oro’ community while this case is pending.”
The lawyer noted that Adeyemi’s action has historically caused unrest in the town. “The defendants in the suit have been served, and the case has been adjourned to February 18 for hearing,” he said.
He recalled that in 2014, Adeyemi and his associates filed suit HIK/24/2014 seeking recognition for Oke-Oro and the right to choose a ruler, but the court dismissed the case. Their attempt to get approval from the Ajama Commission in 2024 also failed.
Barrister Adu Peters stressed the importance of maintaining unity. “We do not want any individual to polarise the town. Our goal is peace and development under the leadership of Oba Agboola,” he said.
Chief Oguntimehin appealed to the governor and the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to reject Adeyemi’s plan, suggesting that government loyalty can be rewarded in other ways, such as political appointments.
He warned that recognising a fictitious kingdom would disrupt ongoing development projects in Irun-Akoko, including school renovations and the establishment of Civil Defence facilities, and urged the state to preserve peace and unity in the community.
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