The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Kwara monarch

  • 13 suspected killers of Kwara monarch remanded in prison

    13 suspected killers of Kwara monarch remanded in prison

    A Magistrate’s court sitting in Ilọrin, Kwara State, yesterday remanded 13 suspected killers of Olukoro of Koro in Ekiti Local Government Area, Oba Olusegun Aremu-Cole in the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS).

    Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers early this month invaded the agrarian community of Koro and killed the monarch.

    The gunmen also abducted his wife and one other person.

    The suspects were arraigned for alleged criminal conspiracy, culpable homicide, kidnapping and giving false information.

    The suspects were identified as Godwin Jacob, Olowofela Oyebanji, Adefalolu Ayodele, Tewasie Francis, Babatunde Samuel, Godwin Joseph, Issa Number, Miracle Solomon, Abraham Kehinde, Muhammed Bello, Muhammed Muhammed, Ahmadu Umaru and Muhammed Dankai of different addresses in Ekiti State.

    Police First Information Report (FIR) said that one Aremu Simon Adeyemi reported the case to the Eruku Police Division.

    Read Also: One arrested in connection with Kwara monarch’s murder

    Adeyemi, the police said, narrated how “the suspects pointed a gun at him, ordering him to follow them when he challenged them after noticing their movement around his grandson.

    “He said his grandson escaped through the backdoor while the suspects proceeded to kill the monarch, kidnapped his wife and one Mercy.

    “But he was later released while the deceased wife and Mercy were held hostage,” the charge sheet added.

    The prosecutor, Abdullah Sanni, informed the court of the motion exparte attached to the police report, urging the court to order their remand.

    Magistrate Monisola Kamson in her ruling ordered the remand of the suspects at the Federal Correctional centre and adjourned the matter till March 5.

  • Row over upgrade of Kwara monarch

    The upgrade of Olugana of Ganmo, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State by former Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed has ruffled some nests in the community.

    The new Oluganna is Alhaji Abdullahi Kolawole Atanda.

    The upgrade of the monarch’s stool to third class status coincided with the presentation of staff of office Alhaji Atanda.

    The development has not gone down well with another family (Oluganmo ruling house) that claims right to the stool.

    Two ruling houses of Oluganna and Oluganmo have over the years, been laying claim to the stool of the community of the community.

    This has led to bloody clashes between the two ruling houses for ages, until the recent Supreme Court judgement which favoured the Oluganna ruling house.

    The rightful holder of the title of paramount traditional ruler between the Oluganna and the Oluganmo families in the community had been a subject of controversy and litigation for more than 30 years before it was recently resolved by the Supreme Court in favour of Oluganna.

    Children of Oluganna ruling house are of Igbomina stock, while Oluganmo are of Afonja ancestr

    Presenting the letter of appointment and staff of office to the monarch, in Ilorin, the state capital, Governor Ahmed represented by Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Alhaji Habeeb Saidu stated that would put an end to the long dispute in the community.

    He sued for peace and harmony among residents of the community, noting that there could not be any development in a community full of violence and acrimony.

    Read Also: Monarch to Army chief: call your men to order

    He urged the new monarch to embrace all the parties and mobilise them to support government programmes and policies.

    In his acceptance speech, Oba Atanda hailed his recognition as the rightful holder of the title of Oluganna and the upgrade to the third class status.

    The monarch pledged to maintain peace, unity and harmony in order to attract growth and development into the community.

    But the Oluganmo ruling house has kicked against the state government’s action, warning of dire consequences.

    Spokesperson of Oluganmo ruling house, Alhaji Moshood Badaru said: “We want Governor Ahmed not to lay down a booby-trap for the incoming administration. We appeal to the incoming governor not to fall into this booby-trap. We also urge him to let the outgone governor know

    that he will be held responsible for any undesirable consequences of his action.

    “We also call on the incoming governor to reverse this injustice.

    There cannot be two third class Obas in Ganmo. There is only one. The consequences will be very grave. They all know that Ganmo is a flashpoint. The person that was installed cannot walk the streets of Ganmo.

    “All the rulers of Ganmo have always come from Okun-Oye family before this injustice.

    We believe strongly that the outgoing governor has been misled by those who went to him surreptitiously to install this man. The governor was seriously misadvised.

    “The Supreme Court judgment was not specific. Though I am not a lawyer, but there is nowhere in that judgment where the Supreme Court made a clear-cut declaration that the chieftaincy title of Ganmo belongs to Alhaji Abdullahi Atanda.

    “Supreme Court did not go into the nitty-gritty of the matter. The court did not treat the matter on its merit. It was all technicalities. We know as a fact, that 98 percent of the people of Ganmo will not accept him. So far we have been able to calm down our people but I don’t think we can do that for too long.”

  • Kwara monarch, UNILORIN VC attribute violence to inequality

    Kwara State first class monarch Olomu of Omu-Aran in Irepodun Local

    Government Area Oba Abdulraheem Adeoti and Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) Prof. Sulyman Abdulkareem yesterday attributed the country’s growing violence to injustice, inequality and poverty.

    They spoke in Ilorin, the state capital, at the 2nd distinguished personality lecture organised by the Centre for Peace and Strategic Studies, UNILORIN.

    The lecture was entitled: “International trends in peace action and peace research: South-North.”

    Oba Adeoti said: “Disorderliness, rancour and acrimony are borne out of disparity between the rich and the poor in Nigeria. The Boko Haram insurgency might not be unconnected with differences in living. While

    some are living in affluence most people are living in abject poverty.

    “For us in Nigeria, it is high time we addressed how to bridge the gap between the poor and the rich. Nigeria was colonised by the British, but we practice American system of government. I can say that Nigeria muddle both the presidential and parliamentary systems of government.

    “It is, therefore, behooves this centre to look into our local problems and solve them locally so that peace can be sustained and maintained in Nigeria in particular and Africa in general.

    Read also: FG blames monarchs for Northwest violence

    “Peace can be maintained by addressing the Nigeria’s political system.  We are talking of peace, but over 91 political parties were registered in the last elections. We shall continually look forward to how the academia and this centre can restore peace to Nigeria. Without peace nothing can be accomplished. Without peace, there will be no development. Even living together will be very difficult without peace.”

    Prof. Abdulkareem, who was represented at the event by the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Management Services, Prof. Fatai Sule, said the root of the pervasive conflicts in Africa can only be uprooted, if culture of African values that are built on justice, fairness and equity are imbibed.

    Abdulkareem called on Africans to retrace their steps and adopt African traditional values to eliminate structural tensions that would give birth to indigenous framework for building peace in Africa.

    The VC hailed the centre for coming up with laudable peace building programmes that are capable of restoring peace and order.

    The director of the centre, Prof Noah Yusuf, said the event was in two folds, personality lecture and public book presentation.

     

  • Lai Mohammed, emir, others attend fidau of Kwara monarch

    Kwara state Deputy Governor Peter Kisira, Information and Culture Minister Lai Mohammed and Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari and others top dignitaries on Sunday attended the fidau prayer for the repose of the soul of the late Etsu Patigi, Ibrahim Chatta Umar.

    Etsu Umar died last Tuesday in Abuja and was buried the following day( Wednesday) at Patigi in Patigi local government area of the state.

    Speaking at the event, Elder Kisira charged Nigerians to contribute their quota to the development of their community which will in turn lead to the progress and advancement of the country.

    Kisira implored them to use their positions and wealth to serve and give their best to the development of their various communities to make life meaningful for the downtrodden.

    The deputy governor added that government alone could not meet the need of the people, hence the support of the people in achieving the needed development.

    On the late Etsu Patigi, Elder Kisira described him as a hardworking man who had passion for the progress of his community, the state and the nation in general.

    He advised the people of the community to emulate the late monarch’s sterling qualities in order to ensure peaceful co-existence and development of the state.

    He noted that the late Etsu contributed immensely to the giant stride and progress recorded in his community and the state, calling on the people of the community not to allow his lofty dreams to die.

  • Kwara monarch Etsu Patigi dies at 65

    Etsu Patigi in Patigi Local Government, Kwara State, Alhaji Ibrahim Chatta Umar is dead.

    The first class monarch died on Tuesday in Abuja after a brief illness at the age of 65.

    Before his death, he was the vice chairman of the state traditional council.

    The remains of the late Umar will be interred today.

    However, the Emir of Ilorin and Chairman Kwara State Traditional Council, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, Senate President Abubakar Bukola Saraki, Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, Kwara State Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed and Governor-elect AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq expressed sadness over the death of the traditional ruler.

    Alhaji Gambari said the late Etsu Patigi was an epitome of peace and symbol of unity for the Nupe speaking tribe in the state and beyond.

    He also said his death would no doubt create a wide vacuum, which would not be forgotten so soon.

    The Emir noted that the late Etsu Umar used his wealth of experience to promote the council through his numerous outstanding contributions.

    Saraki, in a statement by his Special Adviser (Media and Publicity), Yusuph Olaniyonu, described the late royal father as a man of peace, whose reign witnessed monumental growth in his domain and Kwara State.

    “Alhaji Ibrahim was an older friend and an ardent supporter. I will personally miss his advice and fatherly disposition. He was always an apostle of peace and good relationship between the various peoples and areas in our dear state. He shall be dearly missed.

    “The last time I saw him was during the electioneering campaigns, he was lively and articulate about the hopes and aspirations of the people of Patigi, in particular, and the Kwara North Senatorial District in general. As usual, one saw a traditional ruler who tirelessly canvassed the interest of his people. One never realised it was the last meeting we had that day,” Saraki stated.

    He prayed Allah to grant the soul of the departed royal father a place among the righteous ones in Aljannah Firdaus and his loved ones, the fortitude to bear the loss.

    The Minister of Information and Culture, in a statement issued in Abuja yesterday by his media aide, Mr. Segun Adeyemi, condoled with the Emir of Ilorin, the government and people of Kwara, especially the Patigi people over the loss.

    He described the late emir as a man of peace, a great custodian of his people’s culture and a father to all.

    Mohammed said his wise counsel and leadership would be greatly missed, especially at this critical time in the history of Kwara State.

    Mohammed said his last meeting with the Emir, during the burial of the father of Olofa of Offa, left him with a good memory of the departed monarch.

    He prayed that God would grant the late Emir Al-Jannah Firdaus and comfort the people he left behind Governor Ahmed also condoled with the people of Patigi Emirate over the death of their monarch.

    In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Alhaji Abdulwahab Oba, Ahmed described the demise of the monarch as a great loss and departure of one of the builders of modern Kwara.

    He said the demise of the Etsu draws the curtain on one of the most peaceful, finest and most respected traditional rulers in the state.

    Also, the governor-elect AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq described the late monarch as shocking and regretful.

    AbdulRazaq said in a statement by his media aide, Rafiu Ajakaye, that the first class monarch’s legacy of uniting his people for peace and development would be missed.

    The statement reads: “The Etsu Pategi was uncompromising about the unity, peace and development of his people and community. This legacy stood him out throughout his reign,” according to the statement on Wednesday

    AbdulRazaq condoled with the Kwara State Government, the Emir of Ilorin and the people of Kwara North on the passing of the late Etsu Pategi.

  • No religious crisis in Offa, Kwara monarch tells cleric

    The Olofa of Offa, Oba Muftau Gbadamosi has hailed the religious harmony in the ancient city. He added that the absence of religious crisis in Offa, Offa local government area of Kwara State is a result of non imposition of one religion over the others. Oba Gbadamosi said this in his palace when the newly consecrated Bishop of Saint Marks Cathedral, Offa Anglican Diocese, Rev. Solomon O. Akanbi visited him.

    The monarch congratulated the new Bishop for his recent transfer to the community and wished him a memorable stay in the ancient town. Earlier, scores of people witnessed the consecration ceremony, which took place at the Anglican Church headquarters in Offa. Speaking at his enthronement service, the new Bishop, who takes over from Rev. Akintunde Popoola, promised to transform the cathedral and give facelift to all churches in the diocese.

    Bishop Akanbi, who said that white collar jobs are no longer available, added that his plan include embarking on empowerment programme for the youth, as well as welfare package for the aged and visitation to them in their different homes. He also said that a new coaster bus would be purchased for the diocese to ease members’ mobility, among others. The cleric, who sought support, cooperation and understanding of members, said that such would enable him realise lofty ideals.

    The new bishop, who prayed for the monarch, his chiefs and the people of Offa, said that he would not relent in praying for peace, unity and development of Offa, Kwara State and the nation at large. He charged members of the church and Nigerians at large to give their life to Jesus Christ, saying that they should forsake all forms of sins to receive mercy of God.

  • Court sacks Kwara monarch

    A Kwara state High Court sitting in Ilorin, the state capital has asked Dr Stephen Olajide to stop parading himself as the Ollola of Olla, Isin local government area of the state.

    Aro of Olla, Chief Adebayo Adeniyi and three other claimants in Suit No. KWS/80/2016 had approached the court seeking an order setting aside the nomination, appointment, installation and coronation of Dr Olajide as the Ollola of Olla July 8th, 2017 while the case subsists
    in court.

    Read Also:How Kwara Govt was swindled of N227m

    Dr Stephen Olajide and six others were the defendants in the case.

    In his ruling, Justice M. AbdulGafar said “I have considered the application of the claimants and affidavit evidence of the claimants and the affidavit of the 5th-6th defendants and Dr Olajide as well as the submission of the parties.

    “It is clear to that the 7th defendant (Dr Olajide) was appointed during the pendency of this case. The Kwara state Governor and Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice (5th-6th) defendants carried out the installation of Dr Olajide while this case was pending before this court.

    “This court has an inherent jurisdiction to set aside any steps taken by the parties in defiance of court after the court is seized of the matter, Consequently, I hereby nullify and set aside the nomination, appointment and installation of the 7th defendant as Ollola of Olla.”

    Justice AbdulGafar adjourned the case to July 10th 2018 for mention.

  • Kwara monarch, community quarrel over land

    The Olofa of Offa, Oba Mohammed Muftau Gbadamosi, and some members of Ijehu community in Offa are quarrelling over land.

    Many indigenes on Tuesday protested in front of the House of Assembly. They accused Oba Gbadamosi of forcefully taking over their farmland bequeathed to them by their forebears.

    The Baale of Ijehu, Moshood Adeogun, said the monarch’s thugs drove them, adding that many were injured in the clash.

    Adeogun said about seven hectares of cashew plantation, planted over 40 years ago, among other cash crops, were allegedly destroyed by the thugs.

    Police spokesman Ajayi Okasanmi, said about five people had been arrested.

    He said those detained included an 85-year-old farmer, Murtala Eso.

    But Oba Gbadamosi said the land belonged to his Esuwoye family, saying he inherited the land from his grandfather, Esuwoye 1.

    According to him, the Ijehu forbears only took care of the land on their behalf.

    The monarch added that the people attacked his men with about 15 armed thugs when they went to clear the land at the weekend.

    He said he gave about 60 acres and to his people to farm and better their lives.

    Oba Gbadamosi accused those fomenting trouble of not belonging to the seven compounds, which can claim ownership of the land.

    He said he was prepared for amicable resolution should the people embraced peace and atone for their sins.

  • PDP chieftain mourns Kwara monarch

    PDP chieftain mourns Kwara monarch

    A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Nurudeen Adeyemi Balogun, has described the late Olomu of Omun-Aran in Kwara State, Oba Charles Oladele Ibitoye, as an epitome of unity, whose reign heralded growth and development.

    Balogun spoke in a statement on his behalf by his political group, Nurudeen Adeyemi Contact Team (ENACT).

    Adeyemi, who is president of Igbomina Community in North America (ICNA), said the late Olomu lived his life for the unity and development of Igbomina land.

    Read also: PDP National Convention: Dokpesi, Adeniran rejects outcome

    The statement reads: “The reign of Oba Oladele was not only peaceful, but was characterised by development and unity of purpose among all sons and daughters of Omun-Aran.

    “Igbomina nation has lost one of its leading traditional rulers, whose contributions to the development of the race will be sorely missed.

    “The late Olomu stood for everything good and was always bothered about how to move our race forward”.

    The Kwara South senatorial hopeful prayed God to grant Omun-Aran community, Olomu-in-Council, Igbomina community and Kwara at large the fortitude to bear the loss.

  • ARG condemns invitation of Kwara monarch by state security agency

    Following the invitation of the traditional monarch of Apado town in Ilorin East Local Government Area of Kwara State by the state Intelligence Bureau for a ‘security meeting’, scheduled for Monday, December 5, Pan-Yoruba group, the Afenifere Renewal Group (ARG) has called on President Muhhamadu Buhari, the Inspector General of Police and other security agencies in the country, to intervene and stop what it described as a dangerous dimension.
    According to the Publicity Secretary of ARG, Kwara State chapter, Chief Jayeola Omotosho, the invitation of Oba Titus Suberu Ajibola, the Alapado of Apado, over the use of his photograph in an almanac that contained other Yoruba traditional rulers in the predominantly Yoruba local government areas of Kwara State was a ploy to silence the people, who he said ‘are only demanding for their rights’.
    On how the photograph of the monarch was used in the almanac, Omotosho explained that a Yoruba Islamic cleric in Ilorin, who saw the need to bring together the people, printed the almanac and used the photographs of the traditional rulers.
    “An enlightened Islamic scholar, who happens to be a Yoruba man and a Chief Imam, in order to further strengthen the relationship among the Yoruba people in the state, printed the almanac and decided to use the photographs of the Yoruba traditional rulers from five local government areas of Aasa, Moro, Ilorin West, Ilorin East and Ilorin South local government areas respectively. He also included the photographs of all Yoruba governors in the almanac. You can therefore ask, what is the sin of the Kabiyesi of Apado to warrant an invitation by a security agency?”
    “Our position is that everybody should have their own rights. We all know that, by accident of history, the Emir is placed as number one, but other Yoruba traditional rulers too should have their own rights. In five local government areas, there is no other graded chief except the Emir of Ilorin. And now, the Yoruba are demanding for their rights. It should on the principle of live and let live,” he said.
    Also speaking on the invitation, Oba Ajibola said he was surprised to receive a letter from the security agency inviting him for a security meeting over the use of his photograph in an almanac, which he said he knew nothing about.
    “I was written a letter to come for a security meeting with the state intelligence bureau over a calendar that bears my photograph and those of other monarchs. I did not print the calendar and was not aware of it until my attention was drawn to it. Whether that is an offence or, I won’t know until I get to their office,” the monarch said.
    The National Chairman of ARG, Hon. Wale Oshun, while expressing surprise over the matter, said the Yoruba were never conquered and should not be treated as such. He called on political office holders to be careful not to undermine the position of traditional rulers.
    “Categorically, the Yoruba were never conquered. So, it is a surprise that all these are happening in Ilorin. And all political office holders should be very careful not to undermine traditional rulers, because it is dangerous. If you go to Benin Republic where we have Yoruba monarchs, they are not troubling any of them. So, why should political office holders in Nigeria where we have over 43 million Yoruba people be the ones giving these monarchs problems?”