The attention of the genuine Omo-Owa of Isikan has been drawn to a malicious publication by a group of disgruntled individuals referring to themselves as Omowa Isikan, led by Baba Ariyo.
This so-called group claims to have disowned the Iralepo of Isikan, High Chief Henry Gbenga Adeyeye, Arulewolasi II, asserting that he is not a true son of Isikan. This baseless claim is not only ignorant but also a shameful attempt to insult the sensibility of the average Isikan person.
To clarify once and for all, High Chief Henry Gbenga Adeyeye is a true son of the soil and a legitimate Omowa of Isikan. His contributions to the growth and development of both Isikan and Akure at large are undeniable.
For the record, the former Iralepo was never a male son of Isikan. His late father hailed from the Obanla quarters in Akure, while his grandmother was from the Isikan quarters in Akure. If there is anyone truly deserving of being called an Omowa of Isikan, it is High Chief Henry Gbenga Adeyeye. We are perplexed by the former Iralepo’s claim to be more authoritative than the rightful custodians of Isikan’s traditions.
We, the genuine Omowa, wish to clearly state and inform the world that we fully accept and support High Chief Henry Gbenga Adeyeye as the Iralepo of Isikan. We stand united under his leadership and offer our total support to him.
We are confident that, in due time, the Chieftaincy stool of Isikan will be properly elevated, with the consent and approval of the Deji, the paramount ruler of Akure Land, in accordance with custom, law, and tradition.
We call upon all residents, sons, and daughters of Isikan to continue supporting High Chief Henry Gbenga Adeyeye as the Iralepo of Isikan, so he can elevate Isikan to greater heights and restore its pride—without unnecessary conflict, discrimination, or division, which plagued the reign of Mr. Gbenga Ojo as the former Iralepo.
Furthermore, we express our sincere appreciation to the Deji and paramount ruler of Akure Kingdom, Oba (Dr.) Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, Odundun II, for his decorum and fatherly role, even in the face of the unwarranted confrontation and arrogance exhibited by the former Iralepo, Mr. Gbenga Ojo. His behavior does not reflect the values or character of the true Isikan people.
We urge the former Iralepo, Mr. Gbenga Ojo, or any of his agents, to cease making inflammatory statements or engaging in actions that could threaten the peace currently enjoyed in Isikan.
We also urge the public to disregard any statements from any Omowa group other than the one led by Chief Ayo Ogunlade.
Isikan a gbe a ooo.
Signed,
Chief Ayo Ogunlade
Olori Omowa, Omowa Isikan
28/02/2025
