Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has approved the appointment of Prince Adebayo Adegbola as the new Eleruwa of Eruwa, filling the long-vacant traditional stool of the town.

This was disclosed in a statement by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, who noted that the decision followed due process and legal considerations.

According to the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Ademola Ojo, the stool of Eleruwa had remained vacant due to legal proceedings, particularly the dismissal of Suit No. HER/10/23 by the High Court of Oyo State on October 22, 2024.

Hon. Ojo stated that the Laribikusi Ruling Quarters had failed to present candidates within the stipulated timeframe as required by Section 15(1) of the Chiefs Law Cap 28 of Oyo State. Consequently, Governor Makinde exercised his discretion to recognize the Akalako Ruling House as the next ruling quarters eligible to nominate candidates.

Following a thorough selection process, the Kingmakers of Eruwa convened and unanimously selected Prince Adebayo Adegbola from the Akalako Ruling House as the sole candidate to ascend the throne.

Prince Oyelade recalled that the last Eleruwa, Oba Samuel Adebayo Adegbola, was installed in 1998 but was deposed by the Supreme Court of Nigeria on November 29, 2019. He also highlighted that with the appointment of Prince Adegbola, Governor Makinde’s administration has now crowned 11 kings and 40 Baales, setting a record in the history of Yoruba traditional institutions.

Hon. Ademola Ojo called on all sons and daughters of Eruwa to unite in welcoming and celebrating the ascension of the new Eleruwa for the continued growth and prosperity of Eruwa land after 22 years without a monarch.