Ooni of Ife Intervenes in Ondo Community’s Six-Year Chieftaincy Dispute

In a bid to resolve a prolonged chieftaincy crisis, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has urged contestants for the Olufon of Ifon-Omima stool to prioritize dialogue and unity.

The appeal, conveyed by Oba Peter Ipadeola during a visit to Ifon-Omima, comes in the wake of a six-year vacancy following the death of Oba Israel Adeusi in 2020.The community has faced ongoing disputes over the selection process for a new traditional ruler.

Ipadeola emphasized the importance of having a reigning king, stating that a community without one risks losing representation and development opportunities.

“This town is in darkness without a king,” he warned, highlighting the need for a leader to advocate for the community’s rights within the council of Obas.

Chief Tunde Eniolorunda, the Asuada of Ifon-Omima, welcomed the Ooni’s intervention, calling it a significant step toward reconciliation.

He urged the Ondo State Government to adhere to existing chieftaincy declarations and ensure a transparent selection process.

The community has also sought clarity regarding the circumstances surrounding the late monarch’s death, with Eniolorunda advocating for an investigation into the matter. “We demand answers,” he asserted, reflecting the community’s ongoing quest for justice.

Major General Benjamin Badewole, president of the Ifon Improvement Forum, outlined previous efforts to resolve the dispute, including a five-man committee’s recommendations to open the contest for the Olufon stool.

However, the state government rejected this proposal due to lack of supporting chieftaincy declarations.

In February 2026, the forum submitted three options to the government for resolution but has yet to receive a response.

The Ooni’s recent involvement was spurred by outreach from both the Ifon Association in America and local stakeholders seeking a peaceful solution.

Badewole urged contestants to set aside personal ambitions and work toward a unified resolution that benefits the entire community.

“We are here to appeal for unity,” he stated, emphasizing the need for collective action to break the stalemate.

As tensions remain high, the community looks to the Ooni’s intervention as a glimmer of hope in navigating the chieftaincy crisis that has lingered for far too long.