Gov Adeleke, Ataoja Osogbo in fresh row over Osun Iyaloja General appointment

A dispute has erupted between Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke and Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji, regarding the authority to appoint the state's Iyaloja General. The conflict arose after the monarch declared that the Iyalode of Osogbo, Chief Awawu Asindemade, had been reinstated to her previous role as Iyaloja General, before the Adeleke administration came into power.

Oba Oyetunji announced Asindemade's return during a public event on Saturday, alongside the presentation of royal beads associated with the office. Asindemade had previously served as Iyaloja General during the administrations of two previous governors, Rauf Aregbesola and Adegboyega Oyetola. In response, Governor Adeleke appointed Mary Oyebode to the position, making her the recognized Iyaloja General under the state government.

Oba Oyetunji defended his decision, explaining that he had directed Asindemade to support Adeleke's re-election campaign during the August 15 governorship election. He stated that her compliance with this directive prompted him to restore her to the position, which he claimed gave him the authority to appoint the state's Iyaloja General.

The monarch urged the governor to maintain a peaceful relationship with Asindemade. However, Governor Adeleke rejected the Ataoja's claim, asserting through a statement that Oyebode remained the legally appointed Iyaloja General. The governor emphasized that the power to make such appointments rested with the state government, and any announcement to the contrary, including one from the Osogbo palace, was invalid.

He further urged market associations and women from across the state to disregard any appointment of a new Iyaloja General, noting that Oyebode would continue to receive full support and recognition from the state government.