I Am Not Opposed To Ladoja’s Olubadan Ambition — Makinde

The Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has distanced himself from alleged clandestine efforts to impede High Chief Rashidi Ladoja or any other aspirant from ascending to the Olubadan throne.

In a statement released by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, Governor Makinde affirmed that it is premature and unjust to discuss the next Olubadan while a new Olubadan has recently been installed.

There have been rumours suggesting that the state government is attempting to block High Chief Ladoja’s ambition to become the next Olubadan.

These speculations imply that recent amendments to the Olubadan Chieftaincy Declaration of 1957, approved by Governor Makinde with the active participation of the late Olubadan, Oba Olalekan Balogun, were intended to prevent Ladoja’s ascension.

Governor Makinde categorically denied these allegations, emphasizing his administration’s respect for traditional processes and fairness.

“It is not only premature but also unfair and preemptive for anyone to start a discussion on the next Olubadan when a new Olubadan has just been successfully installed,” stated the governor through Prince Dotun Oyelade.

Reacting to the speculations, Oyelade said: “It is embarrassing that few days after the coronation and presentation of staff of office to the new Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, Ige Olakulehin I, some citizens are already looking over the shoulders of the new Oba and ascribing the government gazette that implemented the recommendation of the Ibadan Chieftaincy Review Committee to a ploy to disqualify certain individuals.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the last Olubadan, Oba Mohood Olalekan Balogun, Alli Okumade II, set up the Ibadan Chieftaincy Review Committee to review and deliberate on the needed reforms of the Ibadan Chieftaincy, the extant chieftaincy declaration and composition of the Ibadan land local government traditional councils and make the necessary recommendations.

“After extensive review and deliberation, the committee recommended among others that the 11 high chiefs who are members of the Olubadan-In-Council be elevated and approved as beaded crown-wearing Obas.

“The late Oba Balogun, in a signed letter to the Governor of Oyo State dated February 5, 2023, proposed that this reform be incorporated into the Ibadan Chieftaincy Declaration of 1957.

“A few months later on July 14, 2023, precisely, the amendments were gazetted. “The Governor did this not only because it was a legitimate prayer from Oba Balogun, Alli Okumade II, but also in deference to the tradition and culture of Ibadanland.

“The state government advised the people not to heat up the polity as the government will continue to uphold what is right and the cherished tradition and culture of our people.

“Government wishes the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, good health and wisdom to pilot the affairs of Ibadanland.”