Redeemed Christian Church of God clergyman named as new Soun of Ogbomosho

REDEEMED Christian Church of God (RCCG) clergyman Prince Afolabi Ghandi Olaoye has been named by the Oyo State government as the new Soun of Ogbomosho after his appointment was approved by Governor Seyi Makinde.

One of the most prominent monarchs on Oyo State, the Soun of Ogbomosholand is a first class traditional ruler, regarded in high esteem alongside the likes of the Olubadan of Ibadan, Alaafin of Oyo and the Aseyin of Iseyin. In December 2021, the stool became vacant after the demise of Oba Jimoh Oyewumi Ajagungbade at the age of 95 year after he reigned for 48 years.

Following his passing, a lengthy and complicated selection process began which finally came to an end yesterday with the selection of Prince Olaoye as monarch. However, Prince Abdulwahab Laoye, the chairman of the screening committee of the Laoye Ruling House, claimed that the family had not selected anybody to fill the vacant stool.

He added: “We did not select Ghandi and he is not among the 11 that the screening committee selected from 23 applicants. We do not want the matter to degenerate to the level of litigations.

"We scheduled a meeting on the 23rd of February and invited the council to observe but the council hijacked the process from us and added another seven people on the claims that they equally obtained the expression of interest form, thereby raising the number of the applicants to 18.”

However, Olusegun Olayiwola, the Oyo State commissioner for local government and chieftaincy affairs, said the matter has been concluded. Mr Olayiwola said: “His Excellency congratulates the new Soun-elect on his ascension to the throne of his forebears.”

According to the commissioner, the exalted position has placed the monarch-elect in the position to facilitate harmony, understanding and tolerance amongst his people. He also urged all sons and daughters of the ancient city of Ogbomosho to work with the monarch to consolidate the successes of his forefathers.