Makinde explains delay in emergence of new Aalafin, Soun

Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State says delay in the emergence of new Aalafin of Oyo and Soun of Ogbomosoland, was to allow due process to be followed in their selection to avoid repeat of past mistakes.

Makinde made this known on Tuesday in Ibadan while swearing-in the new Chief Judge of the state, Justice Iyabo Yerima.

Makinde said he had already communicated the kingmakers in the two towns that institutional framework should be followed in the selection of new Aalafin and Soun.

According to him, once due process is followed, things generally will work out more efficiently.

“We have gone through a situation where a king was removed by the judiciary in the state after he has been on the throne for over 22 years.

“And I said to myself, not under my watch are we going to repeat the same mistake. I will rather delay and have due process followed.

“Then, if anybody decides to go to court after the emergence of the new traditional rulers, such exercise might be a nullity.

“I believe this is what we need in Nigeria right now – strong institutions.

“But, we also need people to build them, people with experience, capacity and people with strong conviction to do what is right”.