Orile Imo Asiwaju Urges Gov Abiodun to Resolve Chieftancy Crisis

Olalekan Olakunle, the Asiwaju of Orile Imo in Ogun State’s Obafemi Owode local government area, has called on Governor Dapo Abiodun to step in following his alleged suspension, warning that the matter could spark tensions in the community.

According to DAILY POST, the Olu of Orile Imo, Oba Oluwambe Sogaolu, announced Olakunle’s suspension in a letter signed by the Balogun of Orile Imo, Chief Isiaq Adesanya, on Monday.

The letter, titled “Orile Imo Traditional Council Resolution” and dated August 12, 2025, cited gross misconduct, non-compliance, and failure to recognize the Orile Imo Land constituted authority as reasons for the indefinite suspension. It stated that Olakunle was prohibited from representing himself as Asiwaju or performing duties associated with the title during the suspension.

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Reacting to the announcement, Olakunle challenged the Oba’s authority to suspend him, noting that the matter is still before the courts. Speaking to reporters, he reaffirmed his position as the elected Asiwaju and chairman of the Baale council and appealed to Governor Abiodun to intervene to prevent unrest.

“The governor of Ogun State is a prince and understands our customs and regulations. No one can arbitrarily suspend a chief,” Olakunle said. “I appeal to Governor Abiodun to step in so we can avoid a crisis in Orile Imo. Oba Oluwambe Sogaolu has no power to suspend me, and we seek the governor’s support for the progress of our community.”

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Supporting Olakunle, the Baale of Kajola, Ayinde Gbadamosi, criticized the suspension method, urging adherence to proper procedures for community peace. Community youth leader Jimoh Olorunsogo also highlighted that Olakunle held the Asiwaju title before Sogaolu’s reign and argued that the Oba, yet to be legally confirmed by the courts, lacks the authority to suspend him.