Kingmakers Deny Reports of New Monarch Selection in Ogun Community

The kingmakers of Ikolaje-Idiroko in Ipokia Local Government Area, Ogun State, have refuted social media claims that a new traditional ruler, the Oniko, has been selected.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Ikolaje-Idiroko Council of Kingmakers described reports of an appointment as false, clarifying that the required election to fill the stool, left vacant since the passing of Oba John Ojo in May 2025, has not yet been conducted.

The statement, jointly signed by senior kingmakers including the Aro, Oloorode Mathew, and the Balogun, Daniel Edun, confirmed that three princes from the eligible Odunfa Ruling House have applied for the position. The candidates are Prince Sunday Olayode, Prince Jonah Olagorioye, and Prince Adebotiwa Ade.

According to the council, established tradition requires an election when more than one qualified candidate emerges. This vote, supervised by the Ipokia Local Government, would determine the successor based on the highest number of votes.

The kingmakers disclosed that an election scheduled for Monday, February 9, 2026, was postponed by the local government authorities, who cited security concerns.

The council urged residents to remain calm and patient, assuring the community that the selection process would be transparent and conducted in its best interest. They promised to keep the public informed as the situation develops.