Ibule: Kingmakers Pick Ogunlade, Say No Imposition

Following the demise of the late Oba Adenibuyan Falowo in 2019, the Ibule-soro kingmakers (Afobaje) unanimously selected a new Olubule of Ibule-soro, Prince Oluleke Ogunlade, in an election held at the community town hall and supervised by the Ondo State Government.

It is not news that the statutory responsibility of Kingmakers in the town is to select the next Olubule in line with the customs and traditions of the land.

The Kingmakers consisting of six (6) members are representing chiefs, families and all quarters within the community.

Speaking with the Head of the Kingmakers from Amugofin Family, Omomujo described the selection process as free and fair, stressing that it was done in line with the custom, traditions and gazette of the government. 

She also spoke about her authenticity as a member of the Kingmakers.

In her statement, she clarified that she is the only surviving child of his father late Amugofin Atangboyegun the First Amugofin of Ibule-soro following the court judgement in which one of the candidates challenged the authenticity of the position.

"I have the right as a kingmaker and I have performed my duty to select the Olubule being a kingmaker and second in command to Olubule", she said.

Omomujo also faulted the other three kingmakers who made themselves unavailable for the selection process after being notified by the government. Also, she stated that the available kingmakers selected Prince Oluleke Ogunlade as the new Olubule of Ibule-soro. 

"Three (3) of the Kingmakers laid abscond despite being given notice by the government regarding the selection, but it is my duty to Select Olubule which I have done, I don't know why they want to attack me.” 

Another member of the Kingmakers, Chief Jimoh Asante, representing the Elegiri said the selection process was peaceful and supervised by the government. 

He also shared insights into how some desperate Candidate challenged his authenticity as a member of kingmakers. According to him, he got court approval as the rightful representative and selected Prince Oluleke Ogunlade as the new Olubule without being coerced neither been bribed. 

Asante admonished the indigene of Ibule-soro to support Prince Oluleke Ogunlade.

"Some people wanted to remove me from kingmakers but I seek redress at the court of law, I will advise everyone to support the Olubule-elect."

However, a distinguished High Chief and member of Ibule-soro in council, High Chief Jayeoba, narrated that consultation with the deity revealed Prince Oluleke Ogunlade as the best for the Olubule stool. 

He also narrated that Amogofin being the head of the Kingmakers would have broken the tie if there was a drawn vote in the selection process.

Again, Chief ASAE said as a concerned high chief, he had visited all the other High Chiefs and enjoined them to support the Olubule-elect.

“When the IFA consultation Prince Oluleke Ogunlade was the best followed by the host of other candidates,” Jayeoba said.