450-Year Wait Ends as Oyebanji Installs New Eesalokun of Ilukuno

​ILUKUNO EKITI — History was reclaimed on Saturday as Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State formally installed Oba Gbenga Adebowale Agbaje-Gorite as the new Eesalokun of Ilukuno Ekiti. The ceremony, held in Ijero Local Government Area, marked the end of an extraordinary 450-year hiatus for the Aulodobiosupa royal dynasty.

​Governor Oyebanji, represented by his Deputy, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, utilized the epochal event to issue a stern warning against the politicization of traditional stools. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to a “hands-off” approach, vowing that the state government will never manipulate traditional laws or chieftaincy declarations to suit political convenience.

​A Legacy Restored

​The installation of Oba Agbaje-Gorite follows the passing of his predecessor, Oba Adebayo Jegede of the Okeoro Ruling House, on November 14, 2024. While the transition could have been fraught with tension, the Governor noted that the transparency of the process ensured a peaceful outcome.

​”This is not an accident of time, but a product of unwavering faithfulness to tradition,” the Governor stated. “For over four centuries, the Aulodobiosupa Ruling House waited for its rightful turn. That wait could have ended in bitterness, but because we chose law over sentiment and justice over pressure, it has ended in celebration.”

​The Commissioner for Chieftaincy and Home Affairs, Ojo Atibioke, revealed that the process was rigorous. Despite numerous petitions disputing the eligibility of the Aulodobiosupa house, the Ministry maintained that the lineage was clearly recognized in the town’s historical declarations. Oba Agbaje-Gorite emerged as the preferred candidate following a competitive and transparent screening of three contenders.

​A Call for Unity

​In his inaugural address, the newly crowned monarch expressed profound gratitude to the state government for resisting the urge to “impose” a ruler. He pledged to lead with equity and reached out to those who contested the stool alongside him.

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​”Today, there are no winners or losers,” Oba Agbaje-Gorite declared. “I extend a hand of unity to all. We are one people bound by a shared history, and together, we shall move Ilukuno forward.”

​Governor Oyebanji urged the new monarch to prioritize the security and development of his domain, emphasizing that traditional rulers remain the most vital link between the grassroots and the government.