Questions surrounding bloodline authenticity and transparency of traditional rites have come to the table as the historic town of Emure-Ekiti prepares to select its next monarch. Presently, five contenders are vying for the coveted royal stool. However, there have been increasing demands for each aspirant to publicly affirm their ancestral connection to the Abenimota ruling house — the lineage entitled to produce the next king.
Historical Roots of Emure Ekiti
Situated in Emure Local Government Area of Ekiti State, Emure Ekiti is steeped in rich Yoruba cultural traditions. The town traces its origins to Obadudu, a descendant of Oranmiyan — himself a son of Oduduwa, the progenitor of the Yoruba people. Emure operates a traditional monarchy, with rulership alternating between two royal lineages: Abenimota and Adumori, who were brothers. The official title borne by the monarch is the Elemure.
Abenimota House: The Long Wait for the Throne
Throughout history, several notable kings have emerged from the Abenimota house, including Kanga, Aladeloye, Atikuopolo, Atobiloye, and Odoba Famuti. Nonetheless, from 1882 to 1983, no king emerged from this ruling house — a gap of over a hundred years. It wasn’t until the enthronement of Oba Adigun Oshin, Omiyomade I, that the lineage reclaimed the stool. The road to that restoration was marked by years of legal challenges and cultural consultations aimed at re-establishing fairness in succession. Moreover, the Abenimota lineage has been at the center of succession disputes, such as in the landmark case Wilson v. Oshin (2000).
Current Contest for Kingship
Following the passing of Oba Emmanuel Adebayo in May 2024, the race to the throne has narrowed to five prominent contenders. However, community members have raised concerns over the eligibility of the candidates, prompting calls for a transparent verification of their royal lineage.
“In Emure, like in many African communities, our traditional rulers represent more than just leadership — they are the symbol of our heritage and pride. This is why the process of selecting them must be above reproach,” said a native of the town. “That is why several indigenes, including royal family members, insist that the contenders openly trace their lineage to Abenimota.”
In Yoruba tradition, it is customary for aspirants to publicly affirm and defend their royal ancestry. This declaration forms a critical part of the selection process, with other stakeholders often challenging the authenticity of such claims. Ancestral legitimacy is paramount, and meeting all traditional criteria is essential.
Another concerned indigene said that each of the five contenders should openly disclose their ancestral links to Abenimota by tracing and describing their paternal lineage in detail.
“Once these declarations are made, it becomes important for family heads and respected elders in Emure Ekiti to carry out thorough investigations into the backgrounds of each contender. This is not just about customs — it’s about justice, continuity, and safeguarding the dignity of Emure Ekiti’s royal institution. Only through such transparent methods can the community prevent the throne from being taken over by individuals without rightful claims,” he said.