The race for the Eko-Ende obaship stool has intensified, with twelve contenders vying for the prestigious position following the unfortunate passing of Oba Rauf Olaniyan Ajiboye on March 23.
Eko-Ende, a vital part of Ifelodun North Local Council Development Area in Osun State, has witnessed a change in leadership due to the demise of Oba Rauf Olaniyan Ajiboye.
Oba Ajiboye hailed from the Olaigbo Ruling House, marking the end of his tenure.
Before Oba Olaniyan Ajiboye’s reign, Oba Raji Oladosu, from the Eesaorun section of the Ayedun Ruling House, held the prestigious position.
The Ayedun Ruling House comprises three sections: Obatiwajoye, Aromawe, and Eesaorun.
Following Oba Ajiboye’s passing, the responsibility of producing the next oba has fallen to the remaining two sections of the ruling house—Obatiwajoye and Aromawe.
During a significant family meeting held on October 11, 2023, under the watchful eye of LCDA officials, twelve candidates officially entered the race for the Eko-Ende stool.
Among them is Prince Omoloye, a legal practitioner based in Oshogbo and a representative of the Obatiwajoye section of Ayedun Royal Ruling House.
He boasts a Master’s Degree in Law from the renowned Obafemi Awolowo University, Ife, Osun State.
The list of nominees, as outlined in the minutes of the family meeting, is as follows:
Prince Jimoh Lateef Bababtunde
Prince Adebisi Yunusa Adeniyi
Prince Adeboye Samuel
Prince Waheed Adekunle
Prince Aroyehun
Prince Oladosu Wahab Abiodun
Prince Oladosu Isiaka
The royal succession contest in Eko-Ende holds the promise of shaping the future leadership of the community.