Removal of Eselu Is Political Vendetta — Wale Adedayo

Former Chairman of Ijebu East Local Government, Wale Adedayo, has described the reported removal or suspension of Oba Akintunde Akinyemi, the Eselu of Iselu Kingdom in Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State, as a political vendetta.

Adedayo alleged that the action against the traditional ruler was connected to his political position ahead of the 2027 Ogun State governorship election, arguing that the monarch had chosen to stand by his convictions rather than support the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Senator Solomon Adeola.

In his statement, Adedayo questioned what he described as the different treatment of traditional rulers in Ogun West Senatorial District, claiming that several monarchs in the area had openly supported the APC candidate without facing similar consequences.

He also mentioned the paramount ruler of Yewa, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, whom he said had supported Adeola publicly and privately.

According to Adedayo, the Eselu’s position was rooted in his belief that traditional rulers should consider their cultural responsibilities and ancestral ties when making decisions about political support.

He praised Akinyemi for what he described as his courage to stand by his convictions, saying history would judge the monarch favourably for his decision.

Adedayo further linked the monarch’s stance to the political ideals associated with the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Senator Jonathan Odebiyi, arguing that the Eselu had chosen what he considered the path of truth and principle.

The former council chairman also expressed confidence that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate, Hon. Ladi Adebutu, would win the 2027 Ogun State governorship election.

“They will fail. Hon. Ladi Adebutu of the Ogun State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is the next Governor of Ogun State,” he declared.

Adedayo’s comments add to the growing political debate surrounding traditional institutions and party alignments in Ogun State as preparations for the 2027 governorship election gather momentum.

However, the allegations that the action against the Eselu was politically motivated were made by Adedayo, and no response from the Ogun State Government was included in his statement.