In a demonstration of his enormous respect for the traditional institution, the Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, on Saturday, paid respects to the departed Elemure of Emure Ekiti, Oba Emmanuel Adebayo, who recently joined his ancestors after suffering an undisclosed illness.
The monarch, who was a retired Police Commissioner and one of the Pelupelu Obas, the highest in the hierarchy of Ekiti traditional rulers, died on May 30, 2024, after reigning for 16 years.
Speaking in Emure Ekiti during the final outing service held in honour of the late monarch, Oyebanji, represented by the Deputy Governor, Monisade Afuye, urged the community to prioritise peace and eschew infighting that can exacerbate the insecurity witnessed in the town during the selection process for a new Oba.
Oyebanji, who sympathised with the family and community, said they should take solace in the fact that the late monarch’s reign ushered in unprecedented development in the community.
On the likelihood of a fierce battle in filling the vacant stool, Oyebanji warned that such should be prevented to avert internal crises that can stoke disunity and rancour capable of destabilizing the town.
“There is nothing to gain under the atmosphere of crisis. I appeal to you to allow the will of God prevail in who fills the vacant stool. Only God can anoint a king that will make this town great for you.
“Oba Adebayo was a king who stood for peace and development. He was nice and honest. I want you to keep his legacies glowing and shining for the benefit of all of you”, the governor counselled.
In his submission, the Olojudo of Ido Ekiti and Chairman, Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers, Oba Ayorinde Ilori Faboro, said the departed monarch was an honest and dependable man, who lived a life of sacrifice for his people.
Oba Faboro urged the town to begin the process for the selection of a new monarch in earnest, saying they should not place a premium on money but consider honour and honesty in appointing a new monarch that will replace the deceased monarch.
“I was close to Kabiyesi during his lifetime. He was friendly and honest. In fact, his life was full of fulfilment from his background to his career and his time as a king. This town witnessed tremendous development under his reign.
“The entire kings of Ekiti urged me to tell you that you shouldn’t waste time in selecting a new monarch. You know that if you don’t have a king, you may not develop as expected. But in selecting a new king, don’t place priority on money, but look for a good, honest and honourable man. God will help you”.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Prof Williams Adebayo, applauded the state government for its solidarity and love during the reign of Oba Adebayo, saying such a gesture was still being demonstrated after the monarch’s demise.
The academic said the mammoth crowd further substantiated the widespread impression that the late monarch served the town with honour and dignity.
In his sermon, the Catholic Bishop of Ekiti Diocese, Most Reverend Felix Ajakaye, appealed to the town to form a united front against kidnappers and killers terrorising the people along Emure-Eporo-Emure Ile road.
The Cleric urged the town to sustain the good legacies that Oba Adebayo left behind, describing this as the best way to get the requisite consolation after losing such a priceless and distinguishable monarch.
