Indigenes of Ikoyi-Ile, in Ori Ire Local Government Area of Oyo state, under the aegis of ‘Ikoyi National Descendants Group’ have opposed a proposed town hall meeting reportedly scheduled to be held by the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, in the town, over his 25-year developmental vision for Ogbomosoland.
The group stated that Ikoyi-Ile is not under the jurisdiction of Soun, noting that the town is an ancient town with its own traditional authority, tracing its heritage to Ile-Ife, and that it operates within a clearly defined jurisdiction distinct from that of Ogbomosoland.
A statement by Prince Soliu Ayinde and other representatives of the community on behalf of Ikoyi-Ile indigenes home and abroad maintained that no historical or traditional overlap between the domains of Ikoyi Ile and Ogbomosoland would justify hosting such an event in Ikoyi Ile.
It further argued that the proposed 25-year development agenda is specific to Ogbomosoland and its people, making Ikoyi land an inappropriate venue for its presentation.
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The community also clarified that the administrative grouping of Ikoyi-Ile and Ogbomoso within the same political zone does not imply any form of traditional subordination.
While rejecting what it described as an attempt to impose external authority or influence, the group maintained that it remains open to development partnerships, provided they are based on mutual agreement and respect.
The Ikoyi National Descendants Group, however, called on relevant authorities and stakeholders to intervene and discourage the planned visit, urging residents to remain calm and law-abiding while awaiting appropriate action from the authorities.
Recall that there was an electronic flyer circulating on social media, which announced the planned meeting to be held in Ikoyi Ile.