The Okuoye Royal Family of Ise Land in Lekki Local Council Development Area (LCDA) has reaffirmed that Prince Ibrahim Adebowale Saliu is the only recognised Oba-elect of Ise Land.
In a statement issued on Tuesday and jointly signed by the Head of the Okuoye Royal Family, Chief Ligali Alidu, and the family’s Secretary, Prince Hassan Waliu Adewale, the family urged the Lagos State Government and the general public to disregard the claims of one Ekundayo Babatunde Lana, whom it alleged is falsely presenting himself as the Oba-elect.
The family alleged that Lana is being sponsored by individuals opposed to the Ise Land Obaship process in an attempt to frustrate its successful conclusion.
According to the statement, the selection of Prince Ibrahim Adebowale Saliu followed due process in accordance with Yoruba tradition and the approved Chieftaincy Declaration.
It explained that after the ruling house submitted the names of eligible contestants, the Kingmakers screened all aspirants, consulted the Ifa oracle, and conducted voting based on merit, educational qualifications, and character.
“At the conclusion of the process, the Kingmakers chose Prince Ibrahim Adebowale Saliu as the rightful candidate. Their decision was documented and transmitted to the Local Council for onward submission to the Lagos State Governor,” the statement said.
The family further alleged that Lana placed 25th among the contestants and was neither selected by the Kingmakers nor endorsed through the traditional consultation process. It described as false his alleged claim that the Okuoye Royal Family selected him, maintaining that the family’s role is limited to nominating candidates, while the Kingmakers have the exclusive authority to choose the Oba-elect.
