A socio-political group in Ikole-Ekiti, Ekiti State, has called for the intervention of Gov. Biodun Oyebanji in the matter of long absence of Elekole of Ikole-Ekiti, Oba Adewumi Fasiku, from the town.
The group, Save Ikole Group, made the call in a Save Our Soul (SOS) letter signed by nine frontline group members and addressed to the governor and his Deputy, Mrs Monisade Afuye.
The letter was also addressed to the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr Folorunso Olabode; the Lagos State and Diaspora chapters of the youth group.
The letter was signed by Hon. Segun Adelugba, Chief Alaba Olanipekun, Mr Benjamin Fatoye, Mr Mathew Makinde, Mr Laisi Oguntuase, Mr Funso Oguntuase, Mr Tope Famoroti, Mr Ademola Ogunjobi and Prince Taiwo Olominu.
The group alleged that the traditional ruler had been incapacitated by illness for about 29 months, hence absent from his domain.
“The Royal father has not been seen in public, and it has been confirmed that he is no longer capable of defending, protecting and preserving the community.”
The group further alleged that the traditional ruler had left the palace since Aug. 17, 2021, while his where about was not disclosed to the indigenes of Ikole-Ekiti ever since.
“His immediate family has not made any information about him available, thereby leaving the entire community without leadership, direction and control for over two years.
“Due to the royal father’s absence, there has been no development or growth of any kind in the recent past.
“There has been no coordinated effort to harness individual moves aimed at improving the lot of the people to the detriment of the entire community.”
The group therefore urged the governor and other stakeholders to intervene in ensuring that the leadership stool of the community is not vacant.
