Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has ordered an immediate security clampdown around the Ikirun palace following reports of an alleged plan by some individuals to forcefully take over the traditional stool amid ongoing court cases over the Akirun succession.

The governor directed security agencies to take full control of the palace premises and prevent any unauthorized entry or occupation pending the outcome of litigations surrounding the vacant stool.

In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the governor warned that any prince or individual linked to the alleged invasion plot would face strict consequences, stressing that the matter remains sub judice.

According to the statement, the palace remains officially sealed and can only be reopened through an executive order of the governor after the courts conclude proceedings on the dispute.

“The palace remains sealed until the conclusion of ongoing litigations on the Akirun stool. Any violation of this directive will attract sanctions,” the governor declared.

Adeleke cautioned against acts capable of breaching peace in Ikirun, insisting that his administration would not tolerate self-help or unlawful attempts to install a monarch while judicial processes are still in progress.

“Any attempt to disturb the peace of Ikirun will not be tolerated by our government. The Akirun stool is before the court and until the matter is resolved, no resort to self-help will be allowed,” he said.

The governor explained that the palace was only opened briefly in recent days strictly for environmental sanitation and maintenance to preserve the historic facility, not for occupation or ceremonial purposes.

“I restored peace to Ikirun community through an executive order, and it is only through my executive order that the palace can be reopened,” Adeleke stated, clarifying that the limited access granted was solely for cleaning and preservation work.

He further instructed all security formations in the state to sustain surveillance and maintain law and order in the community.

The Akirun stool has remained vacant since the death of Oba AbdulRauf Olawale Adedeji II in February 2021 at the age of 78. His passing triggered a succession process that later degenerated into disputes among contending princes and ruling houses, leading to multiple court cases.

To avert a breakdown of law and order, the Osun State Government earlier intervened by sealing the palace and urging all stakeholders to respect legal processes while the courts determine the rightful successor.