Urges Olubadan, Alli to stay apolitical
By Adeyinka Adeniran
The Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola has called for calm following allegations and counter allegations of impeachment between the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja.
Social media was recently agog with reports that while the governor was allegedly in a move to depose the Olubadan, reports also claimed that the monarch was perfecting move to impeach the governor.
However, both parties have denied the allegations claiming there is cordiality and peace between the individuals.
Speaking while address a press conference held at his private residence in Sanyo, Ibadan on Friday, Oba Ajibola said efforts have started to ensure that all the acrimony between the monarch and the governor are amicably resolved.
He said, he had reached out to some renowned elders and fathers in Ibadanland to broker peace between the parties.
He added that he was not aware of any impeachment plan or move initiated by the Olubadan against the governor, noting that such was never discussed at any Council meeting.
Addressing what he called the cause of the insinuations, the Balogun of Ibadanland cautioned against what he described as the politisation of traditional institutions in Ibadan, warning that the revered Olubadan stool must not be drawn into partisan conflicts or public controversy.
He emphasised the need to preserve the dignity, neutrality, and sanctity of the traditional institution, stressing that the Olubadan stool must remain above political influence.
He urged the Olubadan to exercise caution and avoid associations that could expose the throne to political scrutiny.
He also cautioned the Ekarun Balogun of Ibadanland, Sharafadeen Alli, who currently represents Oyo South Senatorial District, to refrain from political engagements and focus on his responsibilities within the traditional hierarchy under the Olubadan.
He said, “My personal advice to Baba Olubadan is simple. I have nothing against him, and I hold him in high regard. I do not want anything that will bring his office into disrepute, because I believe in the institution he represents.
“He should tread carefully and stay away from politics. The Olubadan is a revered traditional ruler, and his name should not be dragged into political matters.
“I want him to continue to be respected and upheld as a symbol of unity and tradition.”
The Balogun emphasized that the traditional institution in Ibadanland must be protected from actions capable of undermining its integrity, urging all stakeholders to uphold its longstanding values of neutrality and unity.
