Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has ordered a security clampdown around the Ikirun palace following reports of an alleged plan to invade and occupy the premises amid the lingering succession crisis over the Akirun stool.
The directive was contained in a statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, who disclosed that security agencies had been instructed to immediately secure the palace to forestall any breach of peace.
Adeleke warned that the palace remains sealed pending the conclusion of ongoing court cases surrounding the vacant stool and cautioned that any prince or individual linked to the reported plot would be held accountable.
He stressed that the government would not tolerate any attempt to resort to self-help while the matter remains before the judiciary.
According to the governor, any violation of the directive sealing the palace would attract sanctions, noting that maintaining law and order in Ikirun remains a priority for the state government.
He also clarified that the palace was recently opened briefly for environmental cleaning and maintenance to preserve the historic structure, explaining that the exercise did not amount to a formal reopening.
The governor emphasised that only an executive order could authorise the reopening of the palace, adding that all security agencies must deploy necessary measures to prevent illegal occupation or takeover of the facility.
The Akirun stool has remained vacant since the death of Oba AbdulRauf Olawale Adedeji II in February 2021 at the age of 78.
His passing triggered a succession process governed by customary law and chieftaincy regulations, with disputes among contending princes and ruling houses leading to litigation currently before the courts.
The Osun State Government had earlier sealed the palace as part of efforts to prevent a breakdown of law and order in the community while urging stakeholders to respect the rule of law and allow the judicial process to run its course.
