…as Afijio Lawmaker Faces Backlash Over Alleged Breach of Tradition
Tension is mounting in Afijio Local Government Area of Oyo State following reports that the Akibio of Ilora is allegedly appointed a permanent member of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs—a move many argue defies long-standing traditional practices.
By tradition, the chairmanship of the Afijio Traditional Council rotates among the three principal towns: Fiditi, Awe, and Ilora. Whichever town holds the chairmanship at a given time is also granted the representative seat for Afijio on the Oyo State Council of Obas.
The controversy erupted after Hon. Deji Oparinde, member representing Afijio State Constituency and a member of the Oyo State House Committee on Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, allegedly inserted his father’s name—the Akibio of Ilora—into the list as a permanent member of the Council.
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This action, said to have bypassed the established rotational system, has triggered widespread discontent among traditional leaders, stakeholders, and residents.
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As at the time of filing this report, tension remains high in Afijio, with increasing calls for due process and a return to traditional order. Community members across Afijio Local Government Area await the state’s response and a resolution that will preserve equity, justice and respect for cultural heritage.
