Ijebu Ode, Nigeria - In a robust defense of its royal lineage, the Oba Anikinaiya Ruling House, Ijebu Ode has issued a formal rejoinder to what it describes as misleading allegations published in the Punch Newspaper regarding the family’s heritage in the ruling lineages of the Awujale of Ijebuland.
The publication, dated August 17, 2025, contained claims presented by one Adedeji Ademola Adeyemi, alleging that one Adeyemi family was excluded from the Awujale lineage, a statement the Oba Anikinaiya Ruling House vehemently rejects.
Clarifying Misleading Allegations
In their response, the Oba Anikinaiya Ruling House outlined two primary objectives; correcting what they claim are false and deceptive allegations made by the Punch and preserving the rich history and royal tradition of Ijebuland.
The ruling house highlighted the importance of setting the record straight regarding the lineage of HRM Oba (Dr.) Sikiru Olukayode Adetona, who recently passed on, as well as the Mabadeje, Adekoya Ofirigidi, and Ade-ewu lineages of the Anikinaiya Ruling House.
A Rich Heritage Rooted in Tradition
The Oba Anikinaiya Ruling House emphasized that its lineages are matrilineal, consistent with the Ijebu Royal tradition.
Each lineage is formed by the direct descendants of the individual wives of the Awujale, referred to as "Onori."
The house refuted claims suggesting that the Mabadeje, Adekoya Ofirigidi, and Ade-ewu were unrecognized offspring of Awujale Anikinaiya, stressing that they are indeed crowned princes and senior siblings to notable historical figures; Awujale Adeleke Oluboyejo (Ogbagba I) (1895 - 1906) and Awujale Ademolu Fesogbade (1917 - 1925).
Setting the Record Straight
Among the key points raised in the rejoinder:
- The Oba Anikinaiya Ruling House categorically stated that there is no Adeyemi Ruling House, the correct designation is the Anikinaiya Ruling House.
- The late Oba Sikiru Adetona son of late Prince Rufai Adetona, who in turn was a direct descendant of Awujale Adeleke Ogbagba and his lineage in the Anikinaiya Ruling House with no connections whatsoever to an Adeyemi.
- Historical figures within the Anikinaiya Ruling House, include late Prince Adenaiya Eniafe (Baba Barber), son of Awujale Adeleke Oluboyejo Ogbagba who relinquished his nomination for the emergence of the late Awujale Sikiru Adetona in 1960.
- Recent leaders of the Anikinaiya Ruling House include late Prince John Adetola Sanya, late Prince (Dr.) Adebola Sanya (former General Secretary), late Oloritun of Idewon, Prince Osinaike, Otunba Biodun Onanuga and Otunba Olamilekan Teriba, the Otunba Anikinaiya and Otunba Mabadeje of Ijebuland respectively hail from recognized lineages of the Anikinaiya Ruling House, contributing significantly to its legacy.
NOTICE OF AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVES
The public is hereby notified that the following individuals are the principal representatives of the Oba Anikinaiya Ruling House, authorized to speak on behalf of the house:
1. Prince (Alh.) Toheeb Alaga, Adeleke Ogbagba*: Family Head (Olori Ebi)
2. Prince Hamzat Tommy: Mabadeje, General Secretary
3. Prince Olawunmi Samuel, Adekoya Ofirigidi, Assistant General Secretary
4. Prince Fatai Osinaike, Ade-ewu Adeire, Treasurer.
5. Prince Rasaki Oladunjoye Ademolu Fesogbade, Financial Secretary.
These individuals are the legitimate representatives of the Oba Anikinaiya Ruling House. The public is advised to recognize their authority and disregard any claims or representations made by unauthorized individuals or groups.
Demand for Accountability
The Oba Anikinaiya Ruling House has called upon Punch Newspapers to provide concrete evidence for their claims, issue a public apology, and retract the disputed narrative from the media within seven working days.
The ruling house urged the public to disregard the publication as speculative and baseless, reiterating their commitment to uphold the dignity and integrity of their royal lineage.
Conclusion
With a rich history spanning over a century and a commitment to maintaining the integrity of the Ijebu royal traditions, the Oba Anikinaiya Ruling House remains steadfast in the representation of its heritage.
They assert their authority regarding lineage matters and call for respect of their historical sovereignty and significance within Ijebuland.
Signed:
a. Omoba (Alhaji) Toheeb Alaga - Adeleke Ogbagba
b. Head (Olori Ebi) of Oba Anikinaiya Ruling House
c. Chairman, Awujale of Ijebuland Ruling Houses.
For and on behalf of Oba Anikinaiya Ruling House
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