By Adeyinka Adeniran
Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun has disclosed that only the Sarkin Hausawa of Ibadanland has the recognition of his authority as the head of the Hausa community in the entire ancient metropolis.
Oba Balogun, who traced the relationship between Ibadan and Hausa community to several decades ago disclosed that the community had over the ages been identified with Sabo in Mokola area of the metropolis and had naturally been the seat of power where the community head resides and presides over the affairs of the community.
Oba Balogun speaking through his Personal Assistant (Media), Oladele Ogunsola said the clarification became imperative in view of the petition dated 18th October, 2023 by the current Sarkin Hausawa of Ibadanland, Alhaji Ali Dahiru Zungeru alleging threat, breach of peace and unrest in the metropolis through the activities of Alhaji Haruna Maiyasin Katsina who goes by the title Sarkin Sasa.
While Olubadan acknowledges the right of anybody to adopt any name or title as deemed fit by such individual, such must not in anyway alter the tradition and order of the society, stressing that “Sasa community where Alhaji Maiyasin claims to superintend over has a recognized Baale, Chief Amusa Ajani as the representative of Olubadan and under whom everybody in that community, including the Sarkin Sasa is a subject”.
The statement added “In the traditional history of Ibadan, only one leader has always been recognized as the head of Hausa community and the title ‘Sarkin Hausawa of Ibadanland’ bears eloquent testimony to his overall headship of all the Hausas, irrespective of wherever they may be located so far such a place is on the soil of Ibadan.
“It is therefore sacrilegious and abuse of privilege for somebody with an unrecognized and self appointed title to claim to be conferring titles on other people. Such an exercise is null and void and of no effect. Not even the Baale of Sasa that was appointed by the Olubadan could do such a thing without the approval of His Imperial Majesty.”
While asking the Sarkin Hausawa of Ibadanland to remain calm and peaceful and shun anything that could compromise the peace and tranquility of the ancient metropolis, Olubadan called on the Baale of Sasa, Chief Amusa Ajani to take proper charge of his community and ensure that anything capable of causing disorderliness and brigandage in the area is nipped in the bud.
