Clement Haastrup, a former deputy governor of Osun State, has been announced as the new Owa-Obokun of Ijesaland. The announcement was made by the Bilaro Olu-Odo ruling house on Friday after a selection process conducted by Ijesaland kingmakers at the Ilesa West Local Government Secretariat.
Haastrup succeeds Adekunle Aromolaran, the 48th Owa-Obokun, who passed away on September 12 at the age of 86 after a 42-year reign that began on February 20, 1982.
Selection Process
The selection process, described as free and fair, involved ten candidates from the ruling house. Haastrup emerged victorious, securing the highest votes.
Isaac Haastrup, the ruling house’s public relations officer, stated:
“He defeated nine other candidates in a free and fair selection process held at the Ilesa West Local Government Secretariat along the Ilesa-Oshogbo motorway.”
The panel of kingmakers included six Iwora Mefa and seven Agba Ijesa. Among the prominent participants were:
- Obaala High Chief Ibitoye
- Oba Omokehinde Oyeleye (Ogboni Ipole)
- Oba Olufemi Agunsoye (Elegboro of Ijebu-Jesa)
- High Chief Adefioye Adedeji (Risawe of Ilesa)
- High Chief Lekan Folorunso (Loro of Ilesa).
Felicia Olabimtan, Head of Local Government Administration for Ilesa West LGA, confirmed Haastrup’s victory. She revealed that six kingmakers voted, while High Chief Adefioye Adedeji was absent, and seven others were deemed ineligible.
Controversy and Security Measures
Haastrup’s selection has stirred controversy among other ruling families in Ijesaland, prompting a significant security presence in the area to maintain order.
Haastrup, a member of the Bilaro Olu-Odo ruling house and former deputy to Governor Isiaka Adeleke, now steps into a revered role, continuing the legacy of leadership in Ijesaland.
