Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, the Alaafin of Oyo, has received a severe warning from Ibadan traditional stakeholders to respect the Olubadan stool and the Ibadan traditional institution or suffer repercussions.
They said that the Alaafin made an insulting gesture at a recent public function, which prompted the call.
During a ceremony at the Agodi Government House in Ibadan, Oba Owoade allegedly extended his hand while seated to meet Oba Adewolu Ladoja, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, sparking controversy.
Local monarchs, Mogajis, Baales, and notable Ibadan sons and daughters denounced the conduct as “a gross insult” to the Olubadan and the Ibadan traditional hierarchy.
The stakeholders voiced their profound dissatisfaction with the Alaafin’s actions in a joint statement signed by Mogaji Asimiyu Ariori, President of Ibadan Mogajis, and Mogaji Dr. Nurudeen Akinade, Coordinator of the Ibadan Compound Peace Initiative (ICPI).
They called the gesture “an embarrassment of the highest order” and said it directly violated Ibadan customs.
The stakeholders issued a warning, saying that any more disrespect for the Olubadan or the ancient Ibadan institution will result in a strong reaction.
In terms of age, accomplishments, societal influence, and leadership background, they stressed that Oba Ladoja is superior to the Alaafin.
Read the statement below:
“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.”
Kindly Share
Related Video
