Ibadan, Oyo State – Governor Seyi Makinde has poured cold water on rumors of a crisis surrounding the selection of the next Olubadan of Ibadanland. Appealing for calm and unity, the governor urged naysayers to refrain from making divisive statements that could disrupt the traditional process.
Governor Makinde‘s comments came during a visit from Deputy Governor Barrister Adebayo Lawal and Muslim dignitaries after Eid prayers. The Olubadan throne became vacant following the passing of Oba Lekan Balogun.
“There was greater tension before the ascension of the late Olubadan, which was eventually resolved peacefully,” Makinde recalled. Any concerns regarding the current process will be addressed without rancor.
The governor clarified that the Olubadan-in- Council, the kingmakers responsible for selecting the new Olubadan, has yet to formally notify the state government of their decision. He emphasized that his role is to approve or reject the nominated candidate.
The government will make the best decision for Ibadanland and Oyo State as a whole once the Olubadan-in-Council submits their nomination,” Makinde assured the gathering.
Meanwhile, a separate controversy has emerged regarding the health of the Olubadan-designate, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin. Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, High Chief Rashidi Ladoja, has criticized fellow high chiefs who have publicly questioned Oba Olakulehin’s fitness to rule.
“These are simply personal opinions,” Ladoja stated, addressing reporters at his Ibadan residence. “The high chiefs are not medical professionals, and their comments lack factual basis.”
Recent media reports quoted Otun Balogun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Abimbola Ajibola, expressing concerns that Oba Olakulehin is unwell and needs to recover before his coronation. Ladoja dismissed these views as speculative and devoid of medical evidence.
A meeting is scheduled for Friday to discuss all matters related to the Olubadan stool ascension,” Ladoja revealed. He further clarified that a lawsuit he filed stemmed from threats he received from high chiefs who collected chieftaincy crowns in protest of his refusal to join their faction.
“I am prepared to withdraw the case if they cooperate for the sake of peace in Ibadanland,” Ladoja declared. He reiterated his commitment to a non-vindictive approach should he eventually ascend the Olubadan throne.
Governor Makinde’s call for unity and Ladoja’s defense of the selection process offer a beacon of hope for a smooth transition in Ibadan. As the Olubadan-in-Council prepares to submit their nomination, all eyes are on the state government to ensure a peaceful and rightful ascension to the revered Olubadan throne.
