Alaafin: 28 ruling families warn of alleged marginalization

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Twenty-eight ruling families of the Agunloye House of Power have warned that the selection of the new Alaafin could drag on for a long time if none of the families have the opportunity to ascend the throne again.

They said that only one family out of the 29 ruling families of the ruling house of Agunloye ascended the throne each time it was the ruling house's turn.

The Mogaji Agunloye Isale Oja, Oyo Town, Pa Isiaka Karimu, in an interview with our correspondent on Saturday, said that the family of Lawani Agogo Ija produced the Alaafin three times for Agunloye Ruling House.

He said the remaining 28 families would no longer allow themselves to be marginalized.

He said, "We call on the Oyo Mesi, who are the kingmakers, as well as the state government to allow equity this time. The 28 families who have been marginalized are also entitled to the throne.

"We will not let this opportunity slip away again and that is why we make this passionate appeal to those who wish to be righteous this time.

"There are 29 ruling families in the ruling House of Agunloye and only one family of the 29 has monopolized the throne.

“They still want to take the throne this time but we won’t allow it. these names the next Alaafin. They are all competent and qualified to rule.

"Lawani Ago Ija, Bello Gbadegesin and Alaafin Siyanbola Ladigbolu ruled from Agunloye Ruling House and all three are from the same ruling family. But 28 families have always been sidelined.

"Their children are still arguing now while the remaining 28 ruling families have not had a chance to ascend to the throne. What they are telling us is that we have no right to the throne, but that won't happen."

Recall that the Alaafin stool became vacant following the death of Oba Lamidi Adeyemi on April 22 at the age of 83.

Oba Adeyemi was produced by the Alowolodu ruling house.