The role of the Chief Priest in the selection process cannot be overstated, as an anonymous Iseyin indigene stated, "The Chief Priest is the one that will take the new king to Ipebi alongside other priests; without him, the process is not possible." However, Prime 9ja Online revealed that Mr. Solomon Ajeigbe has emerged as the new Aaba Odo Aseyin (Chief Priest), offering hope for the timely selection of a new Aseyin of Iseyin. Solomon Ajeigbe, a transporter, married with a wife and children, is set to assume the crucial role in the tradition.
The absence of a king has had its consequences, as the town has experienced an increase in criminal activities, according to the Iseyin Youths Development Group (IYDG). The group made an appeal to Governor Seyi Makinde to intervene in resolving the selection crisis and bring an end to the rise of criminal activities in the town.
The IYDG stated in their statement titled "Aseyin Stool so critical to be vacant: A special Appeal to the kingmakers and Stakeholders" that "continuance of the Royal stool’s vacancy will pose a magnificent developmental challenge to the Ancient town." They emphasized that Iseyin has three ruling houses from which the throne is rotated, and based on the monarchical rotational system, it is the turn of Akando to produce the next Aseyin.
The group further urged traditional rulers in the Oke-Ogun zone to collaborate in tackling the insecurity issues plaguing the region. The absence of a reigning king during this critical time can affect the town's developmental progress, as witnessed during the 15-year reign of the late Oba Ajinese. The achievements under his reign include road reconstruction, rehabilitation, construction, and establishment of educational and safety institutions.
Former member of Oyo state House of Assembly (Iseyin/ Itesiwaju) Hon. Afeez Adeleke echoed the need for urgency in the selection process. He commended the efforts of the high chiefs of Iseyin land and appealed to Governor Makinde to prioritize the installation of a new king in the Kingdom.
Local surveyor, Dasola Adefabi, also shared the sentiment, calling on the ruling houses and kingmakers to expedite the selection process and avoid dangerous delays. The Ikolaba of Iseyin, High Chief Ismahil Odubiyi Tikalosoro, who heads the traditional council of the local government, affirmed that the selection process is ongoing, and it should not be rushed.
As Iseyin awaits a new monarch, the entire community is hopeful for a seamless and successful selection process that will ensure continuity in development and governance. The stakeholders and kingmakers play a vital role in shaping the town's future, and their collective efforts are crucial in securing the reign of the next Aseyin of Iseyin.