In a dramatic turn of events, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has reinstated Prince Samuel Adebayo Adegbola as the new Eleruwa of Eruwa, marking a significant moment in the town’s traditional leadership.
The announcement came via a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, on the 4th of March, 2025.
Eruwa, the administrative center of Ibarapa East Local Government Area, had been without a king following legal proceedings that left the revered throne vacant.
Adegbola, who previously held the title for 21 years after his installation in 1998, was deposed on the 29th of November, 2019, following a Supreme Court ruling.
However, in a surprising twist, Governor Makinde has now approved his reappointment, restoring him to the position he once held.
According to Oyelade, a report from the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Ademola Ojo, confirmed that the stool remained vacant after the High Court of Oyo State dismissed Suit No. HER/10/23 on the 22nd of October, 2024.
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Following a meticulous selection process, the kingmakers of Eruwa reconvened and unanimously chose Adegbola from the Akalako ruling house as the sole candidate for the throne.
Oyelade further clarified that the Laribikusi Ruling Quarters, which was expected to present candidates, failed to do so within the legal timeframe set by Section 15(1) of the Chiefs Law Cap 28 of Oyo State.
As a result, Governor Makinde exercised his discretion to recognize the Akalako Ruling House as the next in line to nominate a candidate.
With this decision, history has come full circle for Adegbola, whose reign now enters a new chapter as he reclaims his position as the custodian of Eruwa’s heritage and traditions.