There was jubilation in Oke-Ako, Ikole Local Government Area of Ekiti State, on Monday as Governor Biodun Oyebanji installed Oba Bamidele Olanrewaju Oni as the new Owa of Oke-Ako, ending a 25-year vacancy on the traditional stool.

The stool became vacant following the death of the last monarch, Oba Omotayo Ogunbiyi of the Okediosan Ruling House, on December 10, 2000. Oba Oni, from the Oke Aofin Royal Dynasty, received his Staff of Office and Instrument of Appointment at a ceremony attended by government officials, traditional rulers, royal families and indigenes.

Representing the governor, Deputy Governor Monisade Afuye congratulated the new monarch and the people of Oke-Ako, urging them to put past disputes behind them and embrace peace, unity and love.

Oyebanji also appealed to other contestants in the selection process to support the new monarch, saying prolonged disputes and legal battles had delayed the filling of the stool and hindered development.

In his acceptance speech, Oba Oni thanked the state government, kingmakers and the various royal families for resolving the long-standing dispute. He commended Oyebanji for his patience and commitment to due process, pledging to use his reign to unite the people and promote the social and economic development of Oke-Ako.

The Commissioner for Chieftaincy and Home Affairs, Ojo Atibioke, said the process that produced Oba Oni complied with the state Chiefs Law and the customs and traditions of Oke-Ako. He described the installation as a new chapter for the community and urged the people to support the monarch and use the restoration of the traditional institution to advance peace, unity and development.