Ooni of Ife Urges Peace in Ondo Community’s Chieftaincy Dispute

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has asked those competing for the Olufon of Ifon-Omima title in Ondo State to seek peace and dialogue. This request comes amid a six-year dispute over the chieftaincy position, which has been vacant since the death of Oba Israel Adeusi in 2020.

Oba Peter Ipadeola, the monarch of Ifon-Osun, delivered the Ooni’s message during his visit to Ifon-Omima on Saturday. He emphasized the importance of putting the community’s needs above personal ambitions. He stated that the Ooni would be pleased if a peaceful resolution could be achieved.

Ipadeola warned that without a traditional ruler, the community might struggle to represent itself effectively to the government and other traditional bodies. He noted that a community without a king is at a disadvantage and lacks the leadership needed for development.

Chief Tunde Eniolorunda, the Asuada of Ifon-Omima, welcomed the visit, seeing it as a chance to resolve the ongoing conflict and install a new Olufon. He urged the Ondo State Government to allow the selection process to proceed according to existing rules, stressing the need for transparency.

Eniolorunda also called for an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the late monarch’s death, as the community continues to seek answers about the incident.

Major General Benjamin Badewole, president of the Ifon Improvement Forum, highlighted past efforts to resolve the dispute, including the formation of a committee to explore solutions. He mentioned that the state government had rejected a proposal to open the contest due to a lack of supporting chieftaincy rules.

Badewole urged all contestants to set aside their differences and work together for the benefit of the community, echoing the Ooni’s call for unity.