Prince Alabi Jamiu Adedotun has been selected as the new Onitabo-elect of Itabo after polling three votes in a keenly contested election held Friday July 18, 2025, at the Ibarapa North East LCDA secretariat, ending a 13-year succession crisis that has left the ancient throne vacant since the demise of the late monarch.
The selection process, which featured five candidates from the Agan ruling family, saw Prince Kehinde Isiaka Bayonle securing one vote while three other contenders – Olagoke Stephen Oláníyì, Moteleola Taiwo, and Odewole Segun – failed to garner any support from the kingmakers.
The voting conducted by four traditional kingmakers: Adeleke Ogundeji (Elemo), Okelola Olawale (Ojumo), Olaniyi Olagbeso (Asalu), and Afolabi Gbolamu (Oota, Warrant Chief) brought an end to over a decade of uncertainty on who will ascend to the vacant ancient stool of Onitabo. The process was witnessed by key stakeholders including the LCDA Chairman Hon. Olalowo, the Head of Local Administration Mr. S.I Olagoke, and the Director of Administration and General Services.
In aversion of any breakdown of law and order, security was provided by a joint team comprising operatives from the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Police Force, Operation Burst, and Amotekun Corps.
The prolonged succession battle had been marked by disputes over the legitimacy of candidates, with some kingmakers previously arguing that certain aspirants were not rightful heirs to the throne, while others were deemed incompetent or rejected outright due to questionable backgrounds.
Following the successful conclusion of the selection, the kingmakers have issued an urgent appeal to the Oyo State Government through the Ministry of Chieftaincy and Local Government Affairs, as well as the local government administration, to fast-track approval of the outcome.
The locals emphasized that the people of Itabo cannot afford further delays in having their new king installed after enduring more than a decade without a monarch on the throne.
The selection marks a significant milestone for the Itabo community, which has been eagerly awaiting the resolution of the succession crisis that began following the death of their previous traditional ruler 13 years ago.
Temiloluwa Agbeniga (ARIYA NEWS)
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