Igbogila-Yewa Chiefs Deny Suspension, Express Willingness to Settle Obaship Dispute Out of Court

BY PETER OLANIYAN

ABEOKUTA, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA – The Igbogila Council of Chiefs has debunked reports alleging that they were suspended by the late Oba Ebenezer Olanloye, describing such claims as baseless and lacking valid documentation.

The group stated this during a press conference held at the Ogun State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Secretariat in Abeokuta on Tuesday, November 4, 2025.

The chiefs, led by the Bashorun of Igbogila, Chief Akinlolu Ajibade; the Akogun of Igbogila, Chief Charles Olaotan; and the Elemo of Igbogila, Chief Semiu Bameke, clarified that the Nigerian Police had confirmed that the signature allegedly used by the late monarch in suspending them was forged.

They further announced their readiness to resolve all matters related to the selection of a new Olu of Igbogila in Yewa North Local Government Area through an out-of-court settlement.

Observers believe this decision may have been influenced by the recent protest staged by youths in the community, who accused certain individuals of obstructing the emergence of a new monarch.

The chiefs explained that their decision stemmed from their commitment to peace and the overall progress of Igbogila.

They also alleged that a lawmaker from the town was secretly sponsoring unrest to influence the traditional selection process for personal gain.

Speaking on the way forward, Chief Bameke (Elemo of Igbogila) stated that the Council of Chiefs had already proposed an amicable settlement to end the lingering legal tussle.

“After realizing that no meaningful purpose would be served by prolonging the dispute, we decided to find a peaceful solution. We have the town’s interest at heart and believe that the process of appointing a new king should be expedited.

We’ve filed our terms of settlement, which, once agreed upon, will be adopted as the court’s judgment. We’re working towards concluding the matter amicably”, he said.

In his remarks, community representative Adeyanju appealed to Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, to intervene and address the concerns of the youths in Igbogila. He urged the Governor to set up a special committee under the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to review the situation.

“I want the Governor to come to our rescue. Even after the court verdict, we don’t want any party to return to litigation. What we want in Igbogila is peace,” Adeyanju emphasized.