Seven kingmakers from the Oyo kingdom were called in by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) yesterday for questioning regarding allegations of bribery.
Speaking to journalists, the commission’s spokesperson, Mr. Dele Oyewale, confirmed that two of the kingmakers, referred to as the ‘Oyomesi,’ have complied with the summons.
He stated that the remaining members are slated to attend the commission this week to provide answers pertaining to the selection of a new Alaafin.
The spokesperson, although confirming the investigation’s existence, opted not to disclose any additional details on the matter.
He said: ‘I can confirm that there is an ongoing investigation in that regard.’
‘We did not apprehend any kingmaker, rather we invited them. We are expecting others within the week.’
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A recent report, yet to be verified, alleged that the anti-graft agency had detained the kingmakers over accusations of bribery, as per unconfirmed sources.
The report further stated that the EFCC had summoned the Oyo kingmakers after receiving a petition from a candidate seeking the vacant position.
According to the report, reliable sources in the anti-graft identified the kingmakers invited as Basorun of Oyo town, High Chief Yusuf Ayoola; Agbaakin of Oyo town, High Chief Asimiyu Atanda; Samu of Oyo town, High Chief Lamidi Oyewale; Lagunna of Oyo town, High Wakilu Oyedepo; and Akinniku of Oyo town.
It was reported that the petitioner claimed the kingmakers received substantial amounts of money as bribes to support a specific candidate, resulting in the EFCC’s decision to summon the kingmakers for interrogation.
It is worth remembering that the Alaafin of Oyo position was left vacant after the death of Oba Lamidi Adeyemi in April of the preceding year.
The process of appointing a new Alaafin has been mired in a crisis for over a year, resulting in the position remaining vacant.