By David Akinadewo-Adekahunsi 

A self-proclaimed traditional ruler, Adekolajo Aladeseyi, alongside two chiefs, Fasore Lawrence and Adegbenro Akanle, has been remanded in custody by a Chief Magistrates’ Court in Akure, Ondo State, over allegations of impersonation and illegal installation as monarch of the Ijare community in Ifedore Local Government Area.

The trio was arraigned for allegedly violating state laws by installing Aladeseyi as the Olujare of Ijare without the endorsement of the Ondo State Executive Council of Chiefs, an act said to have ignited unrest in the town over the vacant stool.

Presiding Magistrate, Chief Magistrate Jaiyeola Solomon Ogungade, ordered their remand, citing the potential risk of further crisis in the community.

Police Prosecutor, Babatunde Ajiboye, brought a three-count charge against the accused, including conspiracy to commit a misdemeanour, conduct likely to cause a breach of peace, and illegal installation of a monarch contrary to sections of the Ondo State Criminal Code and Chiefs Law.

The offences allegedly took place in the early hours of April 15, 2025.

All three defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Their counsel, Mr Adelanke Akinrata, argued for their release on liberal bail terms, emphasising their presumption of innocence under the 1999 Constitution and the Administration of Criminal Justice Law.

He assured the court of their readiness to appear for trial and noted that police investigations had already concluded.

However, opposition to the bail request was voiced by Chief Wemimo Olaniran, a kingmaker in Ijare, who warned that releasing the suspects could escalate tensions and embolden others to make similar unlawful claims to the throne.

He revealed that police forces had already been deployed to maintain order due to the brewing conflict.

In response to the arguments, Chief Magistrate Ogungade adjourned the ruling on the bail application to May 12, and ordered the remand of the accused pending the outcome.