One of the contestants to the Oniru stool, Prince Abdul Hakeem Ajasa, has set aside his ambition and congratulated the Oba-elect, Prince Gbolahan Lawal, Freelanews has learnt.

Lawal was approved as the Oniru of Iruland by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu-led Lagos State Executive Council, having satisfied all legal requirements.

He would be installed on Sunday as the 15th Oniru of Iruland.

Prince Ajasa, who many had touted to succeed the late Oba Idowu Abiodun, former Oniru of Iruland, who passed on last year, described Lawal’s selection as a victory for the Abisogun Ruling House.

Freelanews can authoritatively confirm that Prince Ajasa called Prince Gbolahan this evening to congratulate him.

He pledged his support and promised to join hands with the Oba-elect to further develop the Iruland and environs.

Ajasa thanked Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Sanwo-Olu for their supports.

“We say a very big thank you to our daddy, the National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and a core Democrat, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, First Class monarchs in Lagos State, prominent Lagosians, and all our supporters who stood by us during the keen struggle.

“May Almighty Allah and our ancestors continue to guide and guard you all. Congratulations to all the Abisogun Ruling House,” he said.

According to him, the tussle witnessed in the last nine months between the Abisogun and Akiogun Ruling Houses of Oniru Royal family were no doubt tensed.

This, he said, was due to the involvement of the influential princes from the two families.

Ajasa said: “The battle was fierce but it is gratifying that victory came our way in the end and glory be to Almighty God. The keen struggle witnessed among all the gladiators is understandably normal during Kingship tussle.

“From the nomination stage and to selection processes. Alhamudullai, the battle is over and spoils of war are to be managed fairly among all the relevant blocs of Abisogun Family.

“We have challenged the status quo and exposed the history and change the notion that Iru Kingdom is not one family inheritance. We won the throne for the Abisogun family and the crown for Alaiyeluwa Oba Abdul Wasiu Omogbolahan Ajasa Lawal.

“I commend his belief and faith in the Supreme creator, knowing that his purpose and success in life are in the hands of Almighty Allah. Baraka Lahu feeka.”