Ekiti Pelupelu Obas and Governor Fayemi Challenges: A Case Study of Status Question and Leadership Controversies, Nigeria

Abstract

The study of status question and leadership controversies embroiling ranks and file of Obas (Traditional Rulers or recognized Chiefs) in Ekiti State of Nigeria is aimed at authenticating traditions of their seniority and ranking. It traced administration of Chieftaincy matters on the status and ranking of Ekiti Pelupelu Oba and the official recognition/classification of Chiefs despite changes to native law and customs. It also examined steps taken by the British colonial government during indirect rule system to sustain the tradition by creating native authorities among principal and subordinate Ekiti kingdoms which helped in effective administration and political division of Ekitiland (Ekiti Divisions) in old Ondo Province of Western Nigeria under the British Colony and Protectorate of Nigeria. The paper surveyed differences running high between Ekiti Pelupelu Obas (Principal Ekiti Traditional Rulers) and administration of Dr. John Kayode Fayemi (the incumbent Governor of Ekiti State of Nigeria) over the appointment of a non-Pelupelu member (Alawe of Ilawe-Ekiti)as Chairman of Council of Ekiti State Traditional Rulers. It observed an official directive of previous administration of Mr. Peter Ayodele Fayose as Governor of Ekiti State that altered age long tradition of Pelupelu rank by conferring similar status on non-Pelupelu members thereby informing the currency of government decision contrary to laws and tradition. It acknowledged the mediating roles of senior Yoruba Obas in the crisis to forestall the government from making such matter before the court of law to be subjudice, if not politically ill-motivated. The study justifies the need to reexamine tradition of Ekiti Pelupelu Oba in order to preserve the sanctity of Chiefs and sustain a harmonious and peaceful political governance in Ekiti State.