ABEOKUTA – The the Eselu of Iselu Kingdom in Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State, Oba Akintunde Akinyemi, has frowned at a recent publication by an online platform challenging the indigeneship of Senator Solomon Adeola Yayi representing Ogun West.
In a rejoinder personally signed by Oba Akinyemi, the monarch described the publication as a “needless story” that regurgitated a controversy laid to rest since 2018.
He reaffirmed Senator Yayi as a bonafide son of Ilaro in Yewa South Local Government Area, dismissing allegations of him being a “fake indigene” as baseless and politically motivated.
The monarch highlighted that the controversy originated from a 2018 claim by Senator Iyabo Anisulowo, which he characterized as a politically charged statement with no factual basis.
Senator Adeola, according to Oba Akinyemi, legally challenged the allegation and successfully defended his roots in a competent court.
“The Olu of Ilaro and Paramount Ruler of Yewa Land, His Royal Majesty Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, unequivocally debunked the allegations and confirmed Senator Adeola’s indigeneship.
“This certification played a significant role in his installation as the ‘Aremo of Yewa Land’ by the Yewa Traditional Council,” Oba Akinyemi stated.
Oba Akinyemi emphasized the supreme authority of the Olu of Ilaro in matters of tradition and customs, asserting that no individual or group could override the monarch’s judgment on the community’s indigenes.
“The archives of Ilaro and the genealogical records of families are housed in the palace of the Olu Ilaro,” he noted.
The monarch also clarified the procedural requirements for proving indigeneship, which involve an introductory letter from the community’s Oba before any local government certification is issued.
Oba Akinyemi expressed unwavering support of the Yewa people for their senator, lauding Senator Adeola’s developmental strides in Ogun West.
“His transformation initiatives have touched every corner of Ogun West Senatorial District, and his contributions have been acknowledged across board,” he said.
Addressing politicians, the royal father urged them to desist from meddling in traditional matters and to focus on constructive engagements.
He warned against using indigeneship claims to sow discord or disrupt governance.
Reiterating his support for Senator Adeola, Oba Akinyemi declared, “The issue of his indigeneship has been laid to rest forever.
“He has every right to vote and be voted for in Ogun State. The entire Ogun West is solidly behind him, and we are confident in his victory in the 2027 governorship race.”
