Eleruwa Palace Reaffirms Monarch’s Legitimacy, Warns Against Distractions Over Petition

The Palace of the Eleruwa of Eruwa has reiterated its confidence in the legitimacy of Oba Samuel Adebayo Adegbola Ajobo Olurin I, while cautioning against what it described as attempts to mislead the public over a petition forwarded by the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF).

In a statement signed by the Director of Media and Public Communications, Sunday Adedokun, the palace clarified that the letter from the Federal Ministry of Justice, dated July 22, 2025, did not validate any claims against the monarch. Instead, it simply acknowledged receipt of a petition and directed the petitioners to the Oyo State Attorney General, in line with constitutional provisions.

“The Federal Attorney General has no jurisdiction over chieftaincy matters, which are strictly within the purview of state governments,” the palace emphasized.

The palace also took issue with Mr. Sola Abegunde, who publicly announced the petition. It described him as neither a prince nor a stakeholder in Eruwa’s traditional institution, accusing him of exploiting sensitive issues for personal gain.

“His involvement in matters concerning the Eleruwa stool is unwarranted and misleading, driven by sensationalism and divisive commentary,” the statement noted.

Reaffirming the monarch’s position, the palace stressed that Oba Adegbola’s ascension was carried out in full compliance with the laws of Oyo State. It added that the state government, under Governor Seyi Makinde, acted within its lawful authority throughout the process.

The palace further expressed confidence in the judicial system, urging all parties to allow the courts to handle the matter without unnecessary public interference.

Concluding its statement, the palace appealed to the people of Eruwa to remain focused on peace, unity, and development, rather than being distracted by what it described as inflammatory statements.

Legal experts and chieftaincy observers in Oyo State have also confirmed that, under Nigeria’s federal structure, traditional ruler matters are handled at the state level through the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters.