The lingering controversy surrounding the traditional leadership structure of Ilaye-Ijesa in Atakumosa East Local Government Area of Osun State has reached a fresh resolution with the installation of Chief Ayodeji Ojo as the new Aworo of Ilaye Ijesa by the Owa Obokun Adimula and Paramount Ruler of Ijesaland, His Imperial Majesty Owa Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, Ajimoko III.
The installation took place on Saturday, September 26, 2026, following the removal of the former Aworo, Chief Adekunle Ayinla Ariyo, by the Owa Obokun.
The Aworo of Ilaye occupies a significant traditional position as the second-in-command to the Alaaye, the Obatala priest based in Ilesa, and plays an important role in the traditional and cultural affairs surrounding the Alaaye institution.
Chief Ayodeji Ojo now succeeds Ariyo, whose tenure had become the subject of a prolonged traditional authority dispute and allegations concerning his conduct in Ilaye.
Petition Triggered Traditional Dispute
The controversy had earlier come to the attention of the Owa Obokun following a petition by High Chief Simeon Olaleye Oginni, the Alaye of Ilaye-Ijesa, who alleged that Ariyo had usurped traditional authority and acted beyond the limits of his office.
In the petition, Oginni reportedly maintained that he did not appoint Ariyo as Aworo and accused him of parading himself with powers allegedly reserved for the Alaye, thereby undermining the established traditional structure of the community.
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The petition also raised concerns over alleged illegal mining activities in Ilaye, with claims that miners were brought into the community without the knowledge or approval of the Alaye.
The petitioner further alleged that communal lands were partitioned for mining activities and that payments were allegedly made to Ariyo and his associates. He also raised concerns over ownership disputes involving land previously allocated to about 26 tenants by a former Alaye.
The allegations were serious enough to prompt calls for Ariyo's removal from the Aworo institution.
Owa Haastrup Intervenes
The dispute subsequently received the attention of the Owa Obokun, who intervened in an effort to restore order and protect the established traditional hierarchy in Ilaye-Ijesa.
Deliberations concerning the matter were held at the ancient palace in Okemese on Saturday, May 23, 2026, where the controversy surrounding the Alaye-Ijesa traditional institution was reportedly addressed.
Following the intervention, the Alaye-in-Council and the entire Alaye Chieftaincy Family expressed appreciation to Owa Haastrup for his intervention, describing it as an expression of fatherly leadership, wisdom, fairness and commitment to peace and justice in Ijesaland.
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In an appreciation statement signed by Pastor Oluwole Kehinde Johnson on behalf of the Alaye-in-Council, the council commended the monarch for what it described as his role in restoring the Alaye Chieftaincy to its rightful place and protecting the dignity of Ijesa cultural heritage.
Ayodeji Ojo Emerges as New Aworo
The latest development came on Saturday, September 26, when Owa Haastrup formally installed Chief Ayodeji Ojo as the new Aworo of Ilaye Ijesa.
His emergence brings a new chapter to the traditional institution after the Owa Obokun deposed Ariyo over offences reportedly bordering on alleged land grabbing, fraud and gross insubordination without remorse.
The installation is therefore being seen as part of the monarch's continuing effort to resolve traditional disputes, uphold established chieftaincy structures and maintain peace and order within Ijesaland.
The development also brings to a close a prolonged chapter of controversy surrounding the Aworo institution in Ilaye-Ijesa, while placing the responsibility for the office in the hands of the newly installed Chief Ayodeji Ojo.
The latest action underscores the traditional authority of the Owa Obokun Adimula as the paramount ruler of Ijesaland and his role in resolving disputes involving traditional institutions across the kingdom.
Script ✍️: Oladimeji Lasore
Camera 📸: Isaac Haastrup
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