Aruna, the 2024 African Cup champion, on Saturday delivered a confident performance, winning 11-9, 11-7, 11-7, 11-9 to underline his top-contender status.

Also impressing for Nigeria, Olajide Omotayo and Kabirat Ayoola edged Egypt’s Mahmoud Helmy and Hend Fathy 3-2 in a gripping Mixed Doubles battle.

In spite of losing the first game, the Nigerian pair rallied brilliantly to clinch victory in five thrilling sets and reach the second round.

Elsewhere, Egypt’s Yousra Helmy advanced in Women’s Singles with a commanding 4-1 win over Australia’s Jocelyn Lam.

However, several African players bowed out early, including Nigeria’s Hope Udoaka and Ethiopia’s Darara Dufera, who lost in straight sets.

The 2025 ITTF World Table Tennis Championships, featuring over 300 athletes from 70 countries, runs for nine days in Doha, Qatar.

Matches are being held at the Lusail Multipurpose Hall and Qatar University Sports Complex, with strong global interest and fierce competition.

A major upset came in Mixed Doubles as unseeded Italians Bobocica and Stoyanov stunned 12th seeds Ionescu and Szőcs 3-0.

Fans can expect more thrilling encounters when action resumes on Sunday, with several key fixtures on the schedule.

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In recent weeks, I have been struck by the profound loss of two remarkable individuals. First, the passing of Justice Emmanuel Olayinka Ayoola, a retired Supreme Court Judge with whom I shared a deep, daily connection. And now, the heartbreaking departure of my closest elder sister, Christie Oluwakaikunmi Adebamiwa.

Writing this tribute to my cherished “egbon,” whom I affectionately called my “mama kekere” – my little mum – has been one of the most challenging tasks for my spirit. Mrs. Christie Oluwakaikunmi Adebamiwa (née Olamiti) was far more than a sister; she was a cornerstone of love and sacrifice in my life.

From my earliest memories, she cared for me with the unwavering devotion of a mother. Ten years my senior, she took joy in carrying me on her back each day. One of the most poignant stories of her love came during my battle with the highly contagious and deadly smallpox. My mother recounted how my sister, undeterred by the grave risks, never left my side. She bathed me, fed me, and comforted me to sleep every single day until I recovered. That fierce and unyielding love only deepened as I grew older.

I have no doubt she is now resting in the embrace of the Lord. I will forever miss her infectious smile, a true reflection of her pure and kind heart. Goodnight, my dearest little mum.

Growing up, our father was a catechist earning a modest salary of just two shillings a month – barely enough to sustain our family of eight. Yet, my sister led the way, demonstrating remarkable resilience and ingenuity. She would rise early to hawk pap in the mornings and, after school, sell soda soap. When she earned a scholarship for secondary and university education, becoming the second female graduate in Idanre land, it was a blessing not only for her but for our entire family.

READ ALSO: UNILORIN appoints Oloyede, two others as Emeritus Professors

She used her education to ensure her siblings also received quality education, opening doors we never thought possible. When I began my journalism career in Ibadan, she and her Reverend husband welcomed me into their home at St. Anne’s Vicarage, where I stayed for three years. During this time, she even borrowed money to cover my tuition fees at the Nigerian Institute of Journalism in Lagos, supporting me with unwavering love until I could stand on my own.

Though she lived to the age of 83, her passing feels as though a part of me has gone with her. My sister was a virtuous woman – deeply religious and a true philanthropist. Even in her final days, while in a semi-comatose state, she sang in Yoruba: “E so f’araye, Jesu nbo,” meaning, “Go tell the world, Jesus is coming.” These words remained on her lips until her last breath.

A remarkable testimony occurred during her hospital stay. After weeks in a coma, as she began to gasp for breath, we prepared for the worst. Yet, to our astonishment, her breathing stabilized, and she started taking in food and fluids while still in a comatose state. The doctor decided to discharge her, bringing her back home. It was during this time that she began to sing involuntarily about the second coming of Jesus Christ. Her coming around was to deliver God’s message.  She indeed, saw Jesus before she peacefully passed on two months after.

I have no doubt she is now resting in the embrace of the Lord. I will forever miss her infectious smile, a true reflection of her pure and kind heart. Goodnight, my dearest little mum. Until we meet again, may we part no more.

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If wishes were horses, Justice Emmanuel Ayoola would have danced into his 100th birthday with joy and grace. Justice Ayoola, affectionately known as Baba, was more than just a legal luminary. He was a beacon of hope, a mentor, and a man whose presence illuminated every room he entered. He dreamed of celebrating his 100th birthday with the same vigour and grace that defined his life. While he fell just short of that milestone, his legacy continues to inspire everyone who knew him.

Justice Ayoola embodied a life full of vitality and hope, dreaming of milestones that mirrored the vigour he displayed throughout his life.

I vividly recall our memorable conversation during a visit to his in-laws in Awe, Oyo State in 2007. As we journeyed back to Ibadan, his eyes sparkled with admiration. He shared: “Folu, did you know that my in-law is 103 years old and still stands tall, reading without spectacles?” That moment stayed with me, a testament to his optimism and zest for life.

Two years later, under the lush canopy of trees on his magnificent Ibadan estate, he reflected on life’s beauty, saying: “What a splendid scenery, with birds serenading us! I eagerly look forward to reaching 100 years, just like my in-law. However, my life rests in the hands of the Almighty; man proposes, but God disposes.”

I responded warmly: “Papa, if that is your heartfelt wish, I stand in prayerful agreement.”

Although his wish to celebrate his centenary remained unfulfilled, Baba’s life was a celebration of excellence, grace, and unwavering integrity. Even in his advanced years, Justice Ayoola radiated youthful vigour, appearing as robust as a man in his forties. He rarely visited hospitals throughout his life, save for an asthmatic episode during his tenure as Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission. Quick and expert care ensured his swift recovery, a reflection of his remarkable resilience.

READ ALSO: New COAS, Oluyede, speaks on how he plans to tackle insecurity

Baba’s influence extended far beyond his professional accomplishments. He had an unparalleled ability to elevate those around him. His distinguished demeanour and presence were transformative, inspiring admiration and respect. During my time with him, I experienced the profound power of perception firsthand. Adopting his refined style, I soon found myself mistaken for a judge—a testament to how his grace and stature left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.

Justice Ayoola’s brilliance transcended borders. He served as the Chief Justice of The Gambia for a decade, sat on the International Court of Justice in Sierra Leone, and led the court for two years. His work took him to The Hague, where he stood shoulder-to-shoulder with some of the world’s most esteemed jurists, showcasing his unparalleled intellect and dedication.

Despite lucrative opportunities abroad, Baba chose to serve Nigeria, tackling corruption as ICPC Chairman with unwavering integrity. His commitment to justice came at a personal sacrifice, but he placed his faith in God’s providence. After his tenure, he became a sought-after arbitrator, earning global recognition. Remarkably, he left behind thousands of unclaimed fees, prioritising justice over financial gain—a reflection of his selfless character.

Baba’s devotion to his family and faith was unwavering. He often emphasised the importance of investing in one’s children, particularly their education, as the greatest legacy a parent can leave. “A rich education,” he would say, “ensures peace and security in old age.” True to his words, he poured himself into his children’s success. His love for Jesus Christ was his guiding compass, and he steadfastly resisted pressures to join secret societies, choosing to live a life rooted in God’s Word.

Generosity defined Baba. His philanthropy touched countless lives, including mine and that of my dear friend, Ambassador Godwin Adama. His daily calls were filled with prayers and wisdom, and his acts of kindness left indelible marks. Just 48 hours before his passing, he expressed a heartfelt desire to see me. Though we never met again, his life remains a blessing to all who knew him.

Justice Ayoola was more than a judge; he was a father, a mentor, and a man whose life exemplified love, integrity, and unwavering faith. His wish to reach 100 may not have been granted, but the grace and joy he brought to the lives of others will forever stand as a testament to a life well lived. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his legacy inspire us to live with purpose and grace.

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It was happenstance I least expected that Monday morning of 1999. I had dressed up to go to work as Editor of Nigerian Tribune from my new home at the outskirts of Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.  Moments later, Justice Ayoola drove in in his yellow 19th century Mercedes Benz car. He alighted to discuss heartily with one of my  neighbours. He was obviously in an expansive mood that morning.

I greeted him with the reverence he deserved as a man of his stature and standing in legal jurisprudence and society in general.

“Are you the editor I was told, has this imposing building?” he asked with a smile across his lips.

I chuckled and nodded affirmatively. He shook my hands and started discussing with me as if we had met a decade before. He told me of his undeveloped land behind my house. We bantered a while, then he drove off.

It would take two solid years after that chanced engagement before we would meet again.

However, a divine intervention came in 2003 and shattered the lull in our relationship.

Then, President Olusegun Obasanjo nominated me as a member of the Presidential Action Committee on firearms and light weapons. Justice Ayoola was named as chairman of the committee. His appointment as chairman marked the beginning of a bond that would last till he passed on August 20, 2024, at the age of 90.

The chemistry between us became stronger and solidified by the fact that we were both from Ibadan. Besides, I had more time to play with as I had just resigned my appointment with the Nigerian Tribune after 32 years of meritorious service to the company and my country.   Leaving my job at Nigerian Tribune Newspapers without pension made my future look very bleak.

But God brought Justice Ayoola as my guiding Angel as he used him to reassure me about the future, a future pregnant with opportunities.  He took me not just as a member of his great family but as a close one at that. He made sure I lacked nothing, always meeting me at every point of need throughout the two years that I served on the committee.

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The Committee’s assignments took us to all the 36 states of the Federation. It afforded me another opportunity to know every nook and cranny of Nigeria. My first opportunity was with Chief Obafemi Awolowo during the 1983 general elections.

Baba Ayoola hated liars and lazy people. The other side I noticed of him was his short temperament.  But his anger never lingers. He might get angry with you now. The next moment, he would be welcoming you with a broad smile. He was such a kind-hearted man.

I never travelled alone. I was always riding in the same vehicle with Justice Ayoola. We were so close. As the assignment wound up, I began to have a sense of foreboding, thinking that the committee’s assignment would be the last close tie that I would have with Justice Ayoola.

How wrong I was. When he was appointed as Chairman of the Nigerian Human Rights Commission, he beckoned on me again. Though his stay on that beat was brief as President Obasanjo appointed him as the second Chairman of Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offenses Commission, ICPC.

It was a tug of war between him and the presidency before Justice Ayoola could accept the offer.  He had just been offered a juicy and respectable appointment at  the World Court in Hague. To discourage President Obasanjo from looking his way on the ICPC offer, he created some obstacles. He forwarded somewhat impossible conditions to the presidency, including his acceptance of the job at The Hague. He told me that he didn’t see how those prayers would be granted.

So, he waited. The response came the third day, and all the prayers were granted. President Obasanjo was looking for a transparent and incorruptible person to take over from the late Justice Mustapha Akanbi, the pioneer chairman of the ICPC, who rejected a second term in office.

Justice Ayoola became an ICPC Chairman in 2005 and turned things around for better in the fight against corruption.  The assignment was easy for him as he told me: “I wrote 80 per cent of the charter for the establishment of ICPC.” He said he did it pro bono because Justice Akanbi was one of his closest friends.

There were many challenges in the task of fighting corruption. He witnessed many battles of how corruption was fighting back from every sector. Justice Ayoola was undaunted.  Most garrulous elements were firing from the corridors of power from the presidency and in the main the National Assembly, even to the point of blackmail. Justice Ayoola stood like a rock. He was undaunted. He stood his ground. During the period he was on assignments to the Hague with operational seat in Sierra Leone,  Justice Ayoola ensured he  put in place an iron cast structure at ICPC that made it easier for him to closely monitor activities at the headquarters in Abuja.

At the initial stage, my position and duties at ICPC  were not clearly defined.  However, after a few months of deliberations, the then Secretary to the Commission, Dr Tukur Ingawa, came up with the designation of Resident Consultant Media and Event. I became the first occupant of that office.

Justice Ayoola pampered me at ICPC to the extent that members of staff nicknamed me 2ic. I rode in the same official car with him in the morning to the office and back home at the close of work. Our frequent travelling from Abuja to Ibadan was most pleasurable as we gisted and brainstormed on so many issues I could not disclose here.  I’m saving that for my next memoirs. God willing.

Justice Ayoola came up with a novel idea of fighting corruption through preventive mechanisms, using it in pari pasu with arrest and prosecution of alleged corrupt elements.  As an offshoot of preventive mechanism, came the National Anti-Corruption  Volunteer  Corps  NA VC, of which I became its grand commander.

Shortly after President Obasanjo tenure ended, Justice Ayoola made up his mind to quit. It was a tug of war between him and the late President Musa Yar’adua. Obasanjo told President Yar’adua that Justice Ayoola insisted on quitting at the end of his (President Obasanjo’s) tenure so he can face his international assignments at The Hague with every sense of responsibility.

But President Yar’Adua, like Obasanjo, refused to let him go. He, therefore, stayed on to complete his first term in office. Sadly, with six months left for him to quit,  President Yar’Adua passed on, and President Goodluck Jonathan came in.

I followed Justice Ayoola to President Jonathan’s office the day he was to submit his letter of resignation, having refused to seek a second term.  President Jonathan refused to accept the letter, telling Justice Ayoola that he had no one in mind to succeed him. So, President Jonathan appealed to him to stay on.  He gave Justice Ayoola one week to go and sleep over it. I, too, chipped in, asking Baba Ayoola to reconsider his decision.

But Baba appeared to have made up his mind. He told me: “Folu, it is better to quit the stage when the ovation is loudest. I have worked with three presidents within five years, and I have been able to convince myself that this is the time to go. Out there, there are more opportunities to render service to humanity and to serve God.”

Indeed, he served God to the end. He was a committed and devout Christian.  He authored a book of prayer, which he distributed to many faithful and non-Christians free of charge. Myself and Ambassador Godwin Adama became one of his many disciples. During his tenure at the ICPC, it was a daily ritual to pray before leaving his residence and another one as we stepped into his office.  At the end of the day at work, we prayed.

Justice Ayoola was a workaholic. His daily schedule at work was to attend to various meetings and delegate officers to already vetted case files. Getting home, he would take his late lunch at 5 p.m. and thereafter retire to have a late siesta. He would wake up at 9 p.m. to take his late dinner and then move to his well-stocked study room to work on case files he daily  brought home. He would work till 4 a.m., leaving a little time for a short snap, after which he would wake up to have his devotion, have his bath, dress up, and have his breakfast.  He would wait for me and Adama to join him at breakfast.  It was our daily routine to plan for the day–a caucus meeting – for strategies, and chart new ideas in the fight against corruption. Thereafter, we would move in a convoy to the office.

Justice Ayoola was an extraordinary and very humane personality.  No one that I knew that came across him that did not gain one thing or the other from him. He ensured that all drivers and house help were house owners. He gave out personal cars to the needy. He just loved to give. As old as I am and being one of his confidants, each time I was leaving, Baba would fish out his cheque book to give me something to take care of my emergency needs. Even when I did not need it, he would say: “Never reject a gift however small from an elderly friend.  Such a gift is from his heart to show his fondness for you.”

Baba Ayoola hated liars and lazy people. The other side I noticed of him was his short temperament.  But his anger never lingers. He might get angry with you now. The next moment, he would be welcoming you with a broad smile. He was such a kind-hearted man. As the remains of this highly intelligent and quintessential jurist will be laid to rest on 22 November 2024 in Ibadan Oyo State, I am confident that his soul is resting peacefully with the Lord   May his soul continue to find eternal rest. Adieu Baba. You came, saw, and conquered.

*Sir Folu Olamiti writes from Abuja

The post How Justice Emmanuel Ayoola Changed My World, By Folu Olamiti appeared first on Frontpageng.

The driver of the tanker was attempting to divert to another lane when it caught fire at about 4.45 p.m.

The incident left a mini truck, one commuter bus, a Micra car, one tricycle and two motorcycles burnt.

A witness, Biodun Ayoola, said that all the occupants of the affected vehicles and cycles hurriedly took to their heels sighting the petrol tanker on fire.

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According to Ayoola, the ongoing construction of a pedestrian bridge at Ajia Junction made the contractor to block one lane, diverting vehicles to the other lane.

“The petrol tanker caught fire while trying to link the other lane and exploded but we thank God that all the occupants of the affected vehicles and motorcycles escaped from the scene before the explosion,” he said.

Mr Mayowa Odewo, the Public Relations Officer of the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, in Oyo State, confirmed the incident.

Odewo said officers of the command in Egbeda axis were still at the scene, and that a statement would be issued immediately after completing the operations.

Source: NAN

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The late Ayoola was a retired justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria and former Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, ICPC.

Justice Ayoola had an illustrious career as a lawyer and judicial officer, serving as Justice of the Court of Appeal of the Gambia from 1980 to 1983; Chief Justice of the Gambia from 1983 to 1992; President of the Court of Appeals of Seychelles, and Justice of the Court of Appeal of Nigeria from 1992 to 1998.

According to the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ajuri Ngelale, in a statement, Tinubu mourned the late jurist, yet extolled his dedication to the service of the nation, his renowned integrity, and courage to act in the interest of justice.

The president also commiserated with the associates of the deceased and members of the Nigerian judicial society over the loss.

President Tinubu stated that Justice Ayoola would always be remembered for his rare principles, discipline, brilliance, and impeccable jurisprudential knowledge.

The president prayed for the repose of the soul of the elder statesman and solace to his family.

READ ALSO: Tinubu approves takeover, conversion of Dalhatu Araf Hospital

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The announcement was made in a statement by his family: “With heartfelt gratitude to the Lord Almighty, for a life beautifully lived, we announce the passing away of our beloved Dad, granddad, great- granddad, brother, uncle, benefactor, and friend, Hon. Justice Emmanuel Olayinka Ayoola (JSC, rtd; CON).”

Also, the current chairman of the ICPC, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, issued a statement to announce the death and mourn Justice Ayoola.

Justice Ayoola was said to have died on Tuesday at the age of 90.

The statement by the ICPC boss reads in part: “It is with profound sorrow and deep respect that the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) announces the passing of Hon. Justice Emmanuel Olayinka Ayoola (JSC Retired), CON, which occurred on Tuesday, 20th August 2024. On behalf of the Commission, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues.

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“Hon. Justice Ayoola’s demise marks the end of an illustrious chapter in the history of Nigeria’s judiciary and the broader legal profession. A jurist of international repute, his legal career spanned over five decades, encompassing private practice, and notable tenures on the Bench both in Nigeria and abroad. His exceptional integrity, brilliant legal analysis, incisive judgments, and steadfast commitment to justice distinguished him as a towering figure in the legal profession.”

He added: “As we mourn the loss of this extraordinary jurist, we also celebrate a life well-lived, one dedicated to the pursuit of justice, fairness, and the betterment of society.

“The ICPC and the entire nation have lost a venerable elder statesman. However, his legacy will continue to guide and inspire our ongoing efforts in the battle against corruption, providing hope for a more just and fair society.

“May the Almighty grant his family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. Adieu, My Lord.”

The post BREAKING: Former ICPC chair, Justice Ayoola, is dead appeared first on Frontpageng.

Those convicted are the Sarkin Fulani of Kwara, Usman Adamu, his brother, and one Gidaddo Idris.

They were tried and convicted of kidnapping one Abubakar Ahmad sometime in 2022.

The convicts were said to have collected a ransom of N1 million before releasing their victim, who had spent 20 days in captivity.

Kwara State Director of Public Prosecution, DPP, Idowu Ayoola, brought the then defendants before the court for alleged conspiracy to kidnap and kidnapping.

In her judgment, Justice Adenike Akinpelu held that evidence adduced by the prosecution proved that all three accused persons connived to commit the crime.

According to her, argument about whether or not they were physically present at the scene of the crime was immaterial.

The judge said that the convicts “supposedly arrested their victim claiming that he was a kidnap suspect to extort money from him.

“I am not persuaded by the submissions of counsel to the defendants to dismiss the two-count charge against them based on the fact that they were not at the scene of the incident.”

Akinpelu lamented that, “It is saddening and disturbing that community leaders charged with the welfare of their subjects could because of the love of money, breach the security of the same subjects.

“They are hereby found guilty as charged and are so convicted,” she declared.

After listening to the convicts’ allocutus, the judge said: “By Section 15 of the state Anti-Kidnapping Law, the court cannot exercise any discretion of leniency.

“So, you are hereby sentenced to life imprisonment. The sentence is to run concurrently,” she ruled.

The judge also ordered the convict to pay N600,000 to the victim of the abduction as damages.

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Tinubu described the foremost retired justice as a trailblazer and a fine example of integrity and honour in Nigeria’s judiciary.

“Justice Ayoola is among the pace-setters of the Nigerian judiciary. He is renowned for his discipline, diligence, honour, and unwavering integrity.

READ ALSO: Police nab notorious suspect ‘Alagbon’ in Anambra

“He is one of those distinguished jurists whose hard work, brilliance, fortitude, and patriotism built and strengthened the Nigerian judiciary,” the president said.

Tinubu wished the foremost justice many more years in good health.

Justice Ayoola retired from the Supreme Court in 2003.

He had served as the Chief Justice of the Gambia from 1983 to 1992 and was Vice President of the World Judges Association in 1991.

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The kingmakers comprises the Agbaakin of Oyo, High Chief Asimiyu Atanda; the Samu of Oyo, High Chief Alhaji Lamidi Oyewale and Baale Ajagba, Chief Odurinde Olusegun.

The kingmakers, in a statement made available to newsmen in Ibadan on Monday, said that the process that led to the selection of a certain nominee was flawed and could, therefore, not stand.

Basorun of Oyo, High Chief Yusuf Ayoola had, in a media interview, said that the Oyomesi was waiting on the governor for a formal announcement of the new Alaafin and his eventual inauguration.

“We concluded the selection process for the new Alaafin on Oct. 4, 2022 and we informed the state government of our decision immediately.

“As the law of the land demands, we didn’t get any petition against our decision but a suit was filed against us.

“We got our own lawyer and we won the case, with the court throwing away the case and stating that the initial decision that Oyomesi made was right.

“Since then, we have expected the governor to make an announcement but he didn’t. We will continue to wait for him to do that,” Ayoola was quoted to have said.

However, the aggrieved kingmakers faulted the statement credited to him, submitting that he failed to convey a meeting of the Oyomesi, in flagrant disregard to the governor’s directive.

They also alleged that the Basorun disregarded the town’s chieftaincy process, with the nomination of a warrant chief without recourse to the laid down procedure.

The kingmakers said it was wrong on the part of the high chief to ‘unilaterally’ co-opt warrant officers into the council without the consent of other kingmakers and approval of the local government authority as well as the governor.

“There are five living members of the Oyomesi and there are two warrant chiefs eligible to nominate/recommend a nominee to the governor of Oyo State for appointment as the Alaafin.

“The kingmakers met only once in 2022 with the following members in attendance: Basorun, Agbaakin, Samu, Akinniku, Lagunna (Oyomesi), joined by Aare Ago Basorun and Alapo (both warrant chiefs unilaterally selected by Basorun without the knowledge or consent of the Oyomesi).

“As a matter of fact, one of the contestants wrote a letter of protest questioning the inclusion of the warrant chiefs in the kingmakers’ council.

“It was at the meeting of this ill-constituted seven-member kingmakers’ committee that a nominee for the office of the Alaafin was sent to the government for endorsement.

“Immediately after submitting our nomination, we got the government response that our nomination could not be accepted because we did not follow due process in coming to our resolution.

“The government directed that we should go back and do our work properly in accordance with the (chieftaincy) declaration.

“It was also discovered that one of the warrant chiefs, who participated in our earlier resolution, was replaced with Alajagba,” they said.

The kingmakers further stated that they were directed to meet and follow due process, claiming, however, that no meeting of the Oyomesi had been convened by the Basorun since last year.

“The new member of the kingmakers (Alajagba) has been denied the opportunity of participating in or contributing to the resolutions of the kingmakers since his official appointment in 2022.

“This is because of the blunt refusal of the Basorun to comply with the directive of government for due process in our task of recommending of a nominee to the government,” the kingmaker said.

They recalled that the governor had, during an official visit to Oyo about seven months ago, held a meeting with the Oyomesi.

“He specifically told us of his government’s insistence that due process must be followed in the nomination of candidate for the Alaafin stool, as government was only interested in the best for Oyo town.

“Recently, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs invited us to a meeting in his office. While some of us honoured the invitation, Basorun and others did not attend the meeting,” the kingmakers said.

Meanwhile, members of the Atiba royal families have vowed to resist any attempt to scheme them out of the selection process of the new Alaafin.

In a statement issued on behalf of the families on Monday by Prince Sina Afolabi, they alleged that the kingmakers did not follow due process in their nomination of the candidate for the vacant Alaafin stool.

“We acknowledge that there were some improper arrangements made in the past, which have since been rejected by the government.

“These arrangements did not represent a due process that reflects the genuine selection of a new Alaafin. We fully support the government’s decision on this matter.

“We firmly believe that any process that excludes the nine royal families cannot be considered valid.

“It is essential that justice, fairness and equity are upheld in the selection processes.

“To ensure this, we urge Gov. Seyi Makinde to implement the 1976 Adekunle Ladeinde report by allowing the nine ruling houses, including Olawoyin, to participate in the selection processes.

“It is the duty of the government to promote peace and harmony within the community. We sincerely hope that our plea for justice and fairness will be heard and acted upon,” the Atiba royal families said.

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