By Peter Omopo
Ibadan, August 1, 2025 – Prince Adeyemi Akinrinade, a notable contestant to the Eleruwa of Eruwa stool, has called for peace and reconciliation among members of the Laribikusi Ruling House in Ibarapa East Local Government Area of Oyo State, urging them to set aside grievances for the sake of the town’s unity and development.
In a statement issued in Ibadan on Thursday, Akinrinade appealed to his fellow royal family members, particularly those of the Omoni lineage, to avoid actions that could jeopardize the peaceful coexistence of Eruwa residents.
“I want to appeal to all members of the Omoni family as well as the wider Laribikusi Ruling House of Eruwa to embrace peace and go about their normal activities without fear,” he stated.
His plea follows months of tension surrounding the selection and coronation of the new traditional ruler. Governor Seyi Makinde officially presented the staff of office and instruments of appointment to Oba Samuel Adegbola on March 6, 2025, after the State Executive Council ratified his selection as the new Eleruwa of Eruwa. His coronation ceremony was subsequently held on June 28.
However, controversy trailed the process, as members of the Laribikusi Ruling House, including Akinrinade’s Omoni family, had publicly dissociated themselves from the installation of Adegbola a day before the event, alleging that the procedure sidelined their rightful claim to the throne.
Describing the installation as a move aimed at blocking the Laribikusi Ruling House from producing the next Eleruwa, Akinrinade nevertheless urged restraint.
“This call is necessary to calm people down about the tension that may arise from the forceful installation of Adegbola as the new Eleruwa of Eruwa,” he said.
He concluded by urging all stakeholders and indigenes of Eruwa to maintain peace and avoid any actions that might incite unrest or threaten the harmony of the community.
