The Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Rufus Aladesanmi, has been accused by some of his subjects of causing controversy in a chieftaincy dispute within the community.
The traditional ruler had installed Fasina Famuagun, as the new Araba of Ado-Ekiti. However, but some herbalists and members of the community opposed his decision. The latter went on to ask an Ado-Ekiti High Court to stop Famuagan from parading himself as the Araba of Ado-Ekiti.
Chief Famuyibo E. Kayode and Chief Olu Adeniyi Atetedaye, who are the two accusers, revealed that Famuagun was not duly and validly selected and installed as the Araba of Ado Ekiti, in accordance with the Constitution of Onifa and Orisas, in Ekiti State and the age-long tradition, practice and procedure of the community.
Referring to a constitution guiding Ifa priests and herbalists in the selection, appointment and installation of a new Araba in Ado Ekiti, both men said that another candidate within the community, Olalere Adankara of Area B Onola Quarters, Ado Ekiti, was the most senior member of the group who should be installed as the new chief.
The two priests also revealed that the selection, appointment and installation of Araba is the prerogative of members of the association, while the Ewi of Ado Ekiti has no role to play in the process.
Despite the fact that Famuagun did not fulfill the requirements as contained in the constitution of the group, they argued, he had been parading himself as the new Araba of the town.
The duo prayed the court to declare that Famuagun was not duly and validly selected and installed. A fine of N20 million damages was slammed on him for unlawfully parading himself as a chief.
