Ibadan traditional stakeholders comprising monarchs, Mogajis, Baales, and prominent sons and daughters of Ibadanland have once again cautioned the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, against any form of disrespect towards the revered stool of the Olubadan and the Ibadan traditional institution.
The stakeholders condemned the conduct of Oba Owoade, who was reported to have stretched out his hand while seated to greet the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Adewolu Ladoja, during a function held today at the Agodi Government House, Ibadan. They described the action as a gross insult to the Olubadan and the entire Ibadan traditional institution.
According to them, the uncultured act, which was reportedly ignored by the Olubadan, should be taken as a clear warning. They stressed that any further disrespect from the Alaafin would be met with a strong and decisive response from Ibadan traditional stakeholders, including Kabiyesis, chiefs, Mogajis and Baales.
In a statement jointly signed by the President of Ibadan Mogajis, Mogaji Asimiyu Ariori, and the Coordinator of the Ibadan Compound Peace Initiative (ICPI), Mogaji Dr. Nurudeen Akinade, the action of Oba Owoade was described as an embarrassment of the highest order.
The duo stated that Ibadan traditional stakeholders are fully prepared to decisively address any act capable of bringing disrepute to the Ibadan traditional institution.
They further emphasized that Oba Adewolu Ladoja surpasses Oba Owoade in age, achievements, social standing, political exposure, business success, leadership pedigree, and his position as the custodian of Ibadan traditional affairs.
The statement read in part:
“The continuous disrespect of the Alaafin towards the stool of Olubadan and Ibadan traditional institution is becoming intolerable. If Governor Seyi Makinde fails to caution him and Ibadan people are pushed into reacting, the Alaafin will regret his actions.
“We have records of repeated uncultured behaviour towards Ibadan traditional stools. This must stop. Ibadanland will not tolerate further aggravation.
“Ibadan people are not cowards. We are fearless, but we have chosen restraint in the interest of peace.
“Our culture and tradition are sacred. Anything capable of ridiculing them will be firmly resisted.
“The Alaafin cannot come into our territory, sit down, and stretch his hand to greet our highly revered 82-year-old Olubadan.
“Oba Ladoja is a former Senator, former Governor, an international figure, and a successful businessman.
“The Alaafin may choose not to greet the Olubadan, but stretching his hand while seated is an insult to the entire Ibadan traditional institution.
“Ibadanland has never been subordinate to the Alaafin — Ibadan man
