By Our Correspondent
The people of Ayegunle Ekiti in Ekiti State have dethroned their traditional ruler, Oba Johnson Folorunsho Aderiye, following widespread allegations of high-handedness, human rights abuses, and dictatorial leadership.
The dramatic decision, backed by the town’s high chiefs and kingmakers, marked the end of Oba Aderiye’s 27-year reign, which residents described as oppressive and marred by systemic abuses.
In a joint press statement issued Wednesday and co-signed by top traditional chiefs; High Chief Ilesanmi Olugola (Eesa of Ayegunle Ekiti), High Chief Pius Ogunlusi (Eesinkin), High Chief Ayodele Omoniyi (Odofin), High Chief Tubosun Arowolo (Sajuku), and Chief Ojo Omokanju (Eesaya), the chiefs announced the monarch’s deposition and banishment from the community.
The chiefs cited a pattern of abuses, including the illegal arrest and detention of youths, deployment of traditional guards as personal enforcers, and use of intimidation to silence dissent.
Tensions reportedly escalated after a protest against a close ally of the monarch, Ojo Obasua, who was accused of attempting to blackmail a young woman after allegedly impregnating a minor.
Rather than allow due process, Oba Aderiye allegedly sided with his embattled ally, leading to mass protests.
Witnesses say the monarch ordered the arrest of youth leaders and other protest organizers, some of whom were allegedly beaten and detained without cause.
In retaliation, protesting youths reportedly held one of the monarch’s children hostage in a bid to secure the release of their detained leader.
The standoff caused widespread disruption in the town, forcing many shops to shut down and halting daily economic activities.
According to residents, the situation deteriorated as the monarch allegedly turned a blind eye to calls for peace from prominent community members and chiefs, instead doubling down on repressive tactics.
Speaking on behalf of the kingmakers, Chief Olugola stated: “The decision to dethrone Oba Aderiye was not made in haste. We hoped he would change his ways, but instead, he became more defiant. The power of an Oba is derived from the people. When a ruler abuses that trust, he loses legitimacy.”
Security forces were later deployed to restore calm to the troubled town.
The palace remains deserted as of press time, while residents await the announcement of a new traditional ruler.
