Olute Stool: Olule ruling house shortlists four princes for succession

The Olule Ruling House in Ute, Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State, has shortlisted four princes as contenders for the vacant Olute of Ute throne.

The stool became vacant following the death of Oba Adetunji Oluwole Akinrogbe, who reigned for 30 years.

In a statement, the ruling house said the screening was carried out to promote unity within the family and to prevent disputes during the succession process.

The four shortlisted princes are:

Prince Adeusi John Idowu Ajakaye

Prince Olubumi Agbanoja

Prince Abdul Abibola Omoloja

Prince Osebayowa Ben Oju

Speaking on behalf of the family, Prince Osebayowa Ben Oju explained that the exercise was not the final selection of a new monarch but a family-level measure to streamline candidates.

“When we began this process, there were about 11 or 12 aspirants. Each of the four branches was asked to present one consensus candidate. The decision was reached peacefully and without disagreement,” he said.

He stressed that the final decision on who becomes the next Olute of Ute rests with the kingmakers and government authorities, in line with due process for a first-class stool.

Prince Osebayowa also dismissed reports that a new monarch had already been chosen, warning that anyone parading themselves as such was acting unlawfully.

Similarly, Prince Omoloja urged the government to intervene against individuals allegedly spreading misinformation that could destabilize the community.

The screening exercise was witnessed by the family secretary and other respected members of the Olule Ruling House.