Ibadan – The Oyo Traditional Council (Oyomesi) has shortlisted 10 persons as likely successors to the vacant stool of Alaafin of Oyo.
This was contained in a statement issued on Friday in Oyo by the Director of Media and Publicity to the Alaafin of Oyo, Bode Durojaiye.
He said Oyomesi has concluded the interview for aspirants for the Alaafin stool, adding that a total of 65 contestants appeared for the exercise.
Speaking, the acting Regent and Basorun of Oyo, High Chief Yussuf Akinade Ayoola Layinka I, said that only 10 aspirants were qualified after the interview.
He stated that members of the Oyomesi would soon meet to deliberate on the next step, which is the Ifa consultation .
“Whoever emerges among the shortlisted aspirants will be candidate and the next Alaafin of Oyo,” Ayoola said.
The acting Regent also reacted to misinformation in some section of the media and social media on the collection of N200,000 from each aspirant and representation of one of the members of Oyomesi during the period of interview.
“The state government is not only aware but carried along in all our proceedings before, during and after the interview period.
“The state government is ably represented by the Chairperson of the Atiba Local Government and some officials of the council.
“On the Alapinni matter, he is a member of the Oyo Mesi but presently indisposed. To follow the due process, he needs to be represented in order to keep him abreast of development.
” He cannot be left out in the scheme of things. Hence, we request for his representative. Health is wealth. We wish him quick recovery.
“People should watch their utterances and refrain from reckless comments capable of causing implosion. People entrusted with the peace and tranquility of the town should not just rush to the press for mischief making .
” It is better for one to find out about what he or she doesn’t know from the authentic source, than going to the press to cause disaffection,” Basorun said.
