Oyo State Governor, engineer Seyi Makinde, has directed the commencement of a fresh selection process for the vacant stool of the Onikoyi of Ikoyi-Ile, paving the way for an inclusive process involving all recognised ruling houses in the ancient town.
The stool has remained vacant since April 7, 2022, following the death of the former traditional ruler, Oba Abdulyekeen Ayinla Oladipupo IV.
A letter dated October 16, 2026, signed on behalf of the Executive Chairman of Oriire Local Government, William Jare Idowu, JP, notified the prominent ruling houses in Ikoyi-Ile of the governor’s directive to restart the administrative process for filling the vacant stool.
The letter reportedly stated that the process should commence afresh and be made all-inclusive, allowing eligible candidates from all recognised ruling houses to participate in the selection of the next Onikoyi.
The directive is understood to be linked to the absence of a certified Oyo State Government Gazette establishing the succession arrangements for the Onikoyi chieftaincy.
Four major ruling houses are traditionally associated with the stool: the Oladipupo, Adegun, Adesite and Ojo Atoyebi ruling houses.
About six prospective candidates from three of the prominent ruling houses have reportedly expressed interest in participating in the selection process.
The governor’s directive has reportedly been welcomed in Ikoyi-Ile, with residents, including youths and elders, expressing appreciation for the renewed attention to the long-vacant traditional institution.
Many residents are hopeful that the fresh process will lead to the emergence of a new Onikoyi, restoring traditional leadership and representation to the community.
The development is expected to attract considerable interest from the ruling houses and other stakeholders as the town awaits further steps towards completing the selection process.
The people of Ikoyi-Ile are now looking forward to the emergence of a successor to the revered Onikoyi stool after more than four years of vacancy.