By Juliet Umeh

The Iresa-Adu community in Surulere Local Government Area, LGA, Oyo State, have installed a new Oba, after nearly eight years of awaiting approval for the coronation of the Aresa of Iresa-Adu, a first-class monarch and paramount ruler in the state.

According to a statement made available to Vanguard, Iresa-Adu, a prominent ancient town and home to the Surulere LGA secretariat, had repeatedly appealed to the Oyo State Government to resolve the prolonged vacancy of the Aresa throne.

It reads: “Despite visits by elders, kingmakers, and prominent Nigerians, and repeated assurances from Governor Makinde that he “would do the needful,” no action was taken over the past eight years.

“In response to continued government inaction and rising tensions over insecurity, land disputes, and external encroachments, the community moved to install Oba Adeleke Isaiah Olayiwola Oninuola I, the Aregba of Iregba land, a key town within Iresa-Adu territory.”

Speaking on the decision, Elder Prince Olaleye said: “We have had to take action because we are losing lives to insecurity and disputes, and we are losing our lands to those who have long attempted to seize Aresa possessions. Governor Makinde has failed to act despite our repeated appeals.”
Another elder, who requested anonymity, added, “We hope a new governor in 2027 will help, but we cannot sit back while lives, properties, and livelihoods continue to be threatened. Our Local Government Chairman, Hon. Isaiah Adegbite, has publicly admitted that without the Governor’s intervention, there is nothing further he can do.”

Prince Oyerinde further criticised the state government for perceived neglect. “In nearly eight years, the Iyalode and Balogun of Aresa-Adu have passed on while waiting. Governor Makinde has intervened in other chieftaincy matters, including the Soun of Ogbomoso, Aseyin, Alaafin, and Olubadan crises, yet Iresa-Adu remains ignored,” he said.