By Daniel Edu
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has issued invitations to seven kingmakers from Oyo Kingdom, following allegations of bribery. According to the EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, two of the kingmakers, known as the ‘Oyomesi,’ have already responded to the invitation, while the others are expected to appear before the commission within the week to answer questions related to the selection of a new Alaafin.
The Alaafin of Oyo’s throne became vacant after the passing of Oba Lamidi Adeyemi in April of the previous year. The EFCC spokesperson confirmed that an ongoing investigation is in progress but did not provide further details.
Oyewale stated, “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.”
It’s worth noting that some reports suggest the kingmakers were detained by the anti-graft agency due to bribery allegations. The EFCC’s summoning of the Oyo kingmakers reportedly came in response to a petition from one of the candidates vying for the vacant throne.