Youth leaders in Orile Oko Community, located in Remo North Local Government Area of Ogun State, have strongly opposed the appointment of Mr. Koye Ijaduoye as the Asiwaju of the town, describing the move as a violation of the community’s long-standing traditions and values.
This was disclosed by the Bada of Orile-Oko Chief Olusesi Adebesin, through the spokesperson person of Orile-Oko Council of Chiefs, Adetoye Ijaduoye during a press conference held in Abeokuta on Wednesday .
Adebesin called on the Ogun State Government and the Akarigbo of Remo Kingdom to urgently intervene and halt the installation.
He maintained that Orile Oko is deeply rooted in customs that guide its leadership structure, stressing that any occupant of a revered chieftaincy title must demonstrate respect for the community’s heritage and collective aspirations.
“Our traditions are not mere formalities; they are the foundation of our identity as a people. Any attempt to impose leadership that does not align with these values is unacceptable to us,” he said.
They praised the previous holder of the Asiwaju title Chief Samson Adegboyega for his contributions, including the provision of boreholes at Ajana Primary School and Orile Oko Community High School, significantly improved the welfare of residents.
“Chief Samson Adegboyega’s legacy is one of service, unity, and progress. His interventions in education and water supply remain a testament to what true leadership should represent in Orile Oko,” stated.
However, he accused Mr. Koye Ijaduoye of fostering division within the community, alleging that his actions have led to tension and fear among young people.
“We cannot accept a leader whose emergence is already causing unrest and disunity. Leadership should unite, not divide, and it must inspire confidence rather than fear,” they said.
Citing cultural values, Adebesin referenced a Yoruba proverb to emphasize their position, warning that a community that neglects its own people risks stagnation and instability.
He raised concerns about what they described as Mr. Ijaduoye’s lack of visible contributions to the development and unity of Orile Oko, insisting that leadership must be earned through service and commitment to communal progress.
“We urge His Excellency, the Governor of Ogun State, and His Royal Majesty, the Akarigbo of Remo Kingdom, to listen to the voice of the people and preserve the peace of our community by stopping this installation,” he said.
The Youth Leader of Orile Oko, Raimi Lawal, questioned the basis for the proposed installation, insisting that the current holder of the title remains alive and active.
“The person who is the Asiwaju is not dead, so why the installation of a new one?” Lawal queried.
“Chief Samson Adegboyega remains our Asiwaju, and no one else. Any attempt to impose another individual on the community is unacceptable to the youths.”
