A coalition of 130 civil society groups under the umbrella of the Nigerian Human Rights Community (NHRC) has petitioned Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, demanding the immediate release of the upgrade letter for HRN Oparinola Ilufemiloye Oyewole David, the Baale of Alara of Araromi Ipo in Irepodun LGA.
The groups allege that the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Abdullahi Bata, has deliberately withheld the letter for three months, citing external interference from the Olupo of Ipo, Oba Ismail Mohammed Atoloye Alebiosu, despite the government’s own committee recommending the Baale’s elevation.
The Baale was reportedly invited to receive his upgrade letter on January 23, 2026, but waited from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. without the letter being issued. The coalition described the situation as “illegal and disgraceful,” accusing the Commissioner of allowing personal sentiments and external influence to override the government’s decision.
The groups called on the Governor to implement the committee’s recommendation immediately and treat the case of Araromi Ipo fairly, warning that isolating it from the 22 monarchs already elevated undermines justice and democratic principles.