Oba Ilugbusi’s Coronation Brings Harmony To Esun-Ekiti After Over 200-Year Kingship Disputes

BY ISRAEL BOLAJI

The recent coronation of Oba Olasehinde Bankole Adesesan Ilugbusi as the new Elesun of Esun-Ekiti, Arohunmokinise II, on August 2, 2025, heralds a significant turning point for the community. 

The momentous event, attended by the state Deputy Governor, Mrs Monisade Afuye, marks the resolution of over two centuries of discord surrounding kingship rotation in the town.

With the development, peace and balance have been restored, alongside a revival of the legacy established by the late Oba Arohunmokinise I, the town’s third monarch.

Oba Ilugbusi, a youthful and dynamic figure, becomes the 13th monarch in Esun-Ekiti’s history, joining a lineage that includes prominent Yoruba kings such as the current Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, who took the throne in his 40s.

His ascension from the Atiba royal family signifies a monumental achievement for the people of Esun-Ekiti, closing a chapter of prolonged agitation stemming from the dominance of the Iloda royal family, which had held the throne for the last two centuries.

Historical records reveal that the first two rulers of Esun-Ekiti were from the Ijisun royal house, while the third monarch hailed from the Atiba family.

However, following the reign of the fourth king from the Iloda family, no monarch from the other two royal houses was permitted to ascend the throne. This inequity was further worsened by a wrongful coding of the town’s chieftaincy traditions during Oba John Osanyingbemi’s reign in 1959.

For decades, the community grappled with unrest regarding the kingship issue, leading to a tumultuous history filled with failed peace efforts and protracted interregnums.

However, the current government led by Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, affectionately known as BAO, played a pivotal role in mediating this longstanding dispute. His administration encouraged stakeholders to respect the town’s original agreements and urged the kingmakers to make their selections without undue interference.

In a statement, the state government reaffirmed the Esun Chieftaincy Declarations, which stipulate that the Atiba, Iloda, and Ijisun royal families are the three recognised dynasties entitled to produce the Elesun. This affirmation was bolstered by a ruling from the Appeal Court on April 14, 2025, alongside the outcomes of the Justice Aladejana Chieftaincy Review Commission, which invalidated conflicting claims to the throne.

Reports indicate that the last two monarchs, Oba Samuel Omojola and Oba Babatunde Ogunsakin, had also consented to include the Ijisun and Atiba families in the community’s ruling houses, paving the way for the selection of Oba Ilugbusi, who received widespread support from the kingmakers.

Oba Ilugbusi’s reign, invoking the legacy of Oba Arohunmokinise I, promises to restore order, unity, and friendship—principles that have long underpinned the town’s identity.

During the coronation ceremony, Afuye highlighted that the process of selecting Prince Bankole Olasehinde Ilugbusi as Elesun was conducted in strict adherence to the state Chiefs Law of 2012, and the official authorisation was published in the State Government Gazette.

In his acceptance speech, Oba Ilugbusi proclaimed that his ascension signifies “a new chapter and a vibrant new dawn for beloved Esun-Ekiti.”

Quoting the renowned pan-Africanist Nelson Mandela, he expressed optimism, stating, “It always seems impossible until it’s done.” The new monarch pledged to prioritise the welfare and wellbeing of all residents, regardless of their backgrounds or affiliations, and to foster unity that would enable collective progress.

As the ancient town of Esun-Ekiti celebrated the coronation, the atmosphere was filled with joy and excitement.

A high-powered delegation led by Deputy Governor Afuye attended the ceremony, which concluded a week of festivities that began with the installation of the new monarch on July 25.

Dignitaries, family, friends, and well-wishers converged to honour this historic occasion, showcasing vibrant cultural displays and traditional performances.

Oba Ilugbusi, who holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Ekiti State University, has a vision for sustainable development and cultural preservation. Before embracing his royal responsibilities, he was preparing to go for his Post Graduate studies at Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan.

His background as an astute businessman with interests in agriculture and construction equips him with the skills necessary to lead the community towards prosperity.

As Arohunmokinise II, Oba Ilugbusi embodies humility, resourcefulness, and deep cultural pride. He is committed to uniting the people of Esun-Ekiti, both at home and abroad, under a shared vision of progress, peace, and pride.

The coronation of Oba Ilugbusi not only marks the end of a long-standing rift but also signifies a renewed hope for the future of Esun-Ekiti.