The Iyin Development Federal Union (IDFU) has urged the Iyin Development Federal Union (IDFU) and Ekiti Governor Biodun Oyebanji to resolve amicably the controversy over a chair.

The union made the appeal in a statement signed by its president, Funso Adesokan, and national secretary, Tope Akindele, which was made available to journalists on Sunday in Abuja.

IDFU is the socio-cultural umbrella body representing all Iyin-Ekiti sons and daughters.

The union said it was aware of “ongoing efforts by well-meaning people” to de-escalate the situation and restore harmonious relations between the traditional ruler, Iyin people and the state government.

“We believe the unfortunate misunderstanding on the matter is capable of being fully and amicably resolved through that process,” the union said.

The controversy reportedly arose after Mr Oyebanji attended a thanksgiving service on May 31 at Babamuboni Memorial Anglican Church, Iyin-Ekiti.

The service was hosted by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, with the governor reportedly using a particular chair during the church programme.

Following the service, Oba Ajakaiye reportedly requested the specific chair, stating in palace correspondence that it was required for “royal custody and appropriate traditional rites.”

The church’s Vicar, Ven. Samuel Agunbiade, reportedly rejected the request, saying the chair was church property and had already been dismantled into altar furniture.

The controversy subsequently generated public concern.

The union, however, described Mr Oyebanji as “a friend and close associate of the Oluyin of Iyin and a distinguished son of Iyin by affiliation.”

It said the governor’s administration had “contributed significantly to the development of Iyin-Ekiti” and provided meaningful opportunities for many Iyin sons and daughters.

“Against this background, the Oluyin and the people of Iyin hold nothing but goodwill toward the governor,” the union said.

The IDFU also reaffirmed its “unalloyed respect, confidence and loyalty” to Oba Ajakaiye, while stressing its respect for traditional leadership and the Christian community.

It urged members of the public “not to draw hasty conclusions from unverified social media publications” and to allow the matter to follow established peace efforts.

The union appealed to Iyin sons, daughters, well-wishers and media practitioners to “exercise calm” and desist from amplifying narratives capable of creating unnecessary tension.

It said such narratives could damage “longstanding relationships” and urged all stakeholders to support dialogue through the appropriate channels.

“The IDFU reaffirms its commitment to constructive engagement and asks all well-meaning Nigerians to allow peace to reign while dialogue continues,” the union said. 

(NAN)