The Alahan of Ahan-Ayegunle Ekiti, Oba Matthew Durojaye Jegede is one of the most vibrant monarchs in Ekiti State. In this interview with EMMANUEL ADENIRAN, he speaks about the problem of non-existent health care service in his domain… Excerpts:
Can I meet you sir?
I am Oba Mathew Durojaye Jegede, the Alahan of Ahan-Ayegunle Ekiti, Ejalilawo gangansewa the second.
How did Ahan-Ayegunle come into existence?
Ahan-Ayegunle emanated from Ile-Ife. The town according to history is traceable to two brothers who left Ile-Ife due to lack of space to settle down. While they were going, they were told to settle where there is clear space where they can see the whole town. They, however, settled at Ahan, meaning clear space, closer to Omuo Ekiti. During this period- precisely 1930, there were inconveniences from people they hoped to settle with, Omuo people –they said we could not do something we like since we are not on our land. This prompted us to agitate and move to our own town now called Ahan-Ayegunle.
What do you have to say about your coronation as the king of Ahan-Ayegunle?
I give glory to God on this especially on my coronation day on 27th of December, 2018. I also acknowledge the efforts of Governor Kayode Fayemi during his first tenure for giving us health centre which is under lock and key for now. Our town is still developing since we left Omuo based on condition and to get what we need immediately might not be possible. The Governor through this recognition as Oba, gave me the autonomy to invite my people from far and near to come home and participate in various activities that we always observe here such as festival celebration which is always held in my palace. Again, the staff that the Government will give to me will also be on our land. This is to tell you that we are progressing as a town.
Kabiyesi do you wish to talk about some of the challenges the town is facing?
We have many challenges as a developing town. You will remember that I said earlier that we left Omuo due to inconveniences as a people. One of such problems is health care system…our health center is presently under lock and key, scarcity of water, no schools in our town because our children have to make use of bikes to their various schools in Omuo Ekiti, we don’t have motorable roads that other community can ply to partner with us in trading our farm produces.
Have you been taking steps to solve some of these problems?
Yes, we have been taking steps in reaching to the government and is yielding gradual result. In fact, we also called on our children in diaspora and they have been supportive in moving our community to greater heights.
So, Kabiyesi how is the issue of security here?
Our security status here has been good. Our major concern or threat is Fulani herdsmen who distroyed our farms and left the farmers with nothing.
Any action on this Kabiyesi?
Yes, when I assumed my father’s throne, I took an action that if herdsmen graze on any farm that my people should report to me immediately and after which it will be reported to the police who will now fine them based on what they destroyed. There was a time I made customized clothes and ID cards for them for identification and to know those who smuggle themselves into the town.
That was a good step Kabiyesi
Thank you
Sir, what is your take on the new Western Nigeria Security Network called Amotekun?
I am happy for the step taken by our southwest Governors to protect our lives and property. It will go a long way to secure every nook and cranny of our environment. I will just implore our governments in the southwest region to make guidelines for this outfit so that the main aim of establishing it will not be misused by individual participants.
Do you have any direct request you want to send to Governor Fayemi sir?
I appeal to our Governor to come to our aid in basic infrastructure that will make life meaningful to us. We also want our children in the diaspora to come and assist the town in several ways, we want people around us to come and trade with us to enhance our living standard.
