Tensions are escalating in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, over alleged attempts to block the path of the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, High Chief Rasidi Ladoja, from ascending to the position of Olubadan.
Former governor of Oyo State, Ladoja currently holds the position of the most senior High Chief in Ibadan. According toSection 4 of 1957 Olubadan Chieftaincy Declaration, the Otun Olubadan line, from which Ladoja hails, is next in line to produce the Olubadan.
The crisis erupted following the passing of the 42nd Olubadan, Oba Mahood Olalekan Balogun, and lasted for about three months. It was resolved with the coronation of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, Ige Olakulehin 1, on Friday, July 12, 2024.
However, fresh controversy has arisen over plans allegedly orchestrated by the state government to obstruct Ladoja’s path to becoming the next Olubadan after Olakulehin.
These plans are reportedly detailed in the newly revised Ibadan Chieftaincy declaration issued by the Oyo State Government under Governor Seyi Makinde in 2023.
A critical point of contention lies in the amended Section 4 of the declaration, which now stipulates that candidates for the Olubadan position must be the “most Senior Beaded Crown Oba” in their respective lines, replacing the previous requirement for the “most Senior (High) Chief.”
Ladoja, who is noted for refusing to wear the beaded crown, stands as the only High Chief among the recognized kingmakers of Ibadanland who has taken this stance.
Consequently, this new provision potentially disqualifies him from the position of Olubadan.
The development has sparked heated debate among the city’s prominent indigenes, with concerns raised about its potential to ignite a fresh crisis in the ancient city.
Some residents believe that Ladoja may challenge the legality of the new law in court, viewing it as a deliberate attempt to prevent his ascension to the Olubadan throne.
As discussions intensify among Ibadan indigenes, sentiments of rejection towards the new chieftaincy law are palpable, fueled by assertions that Ladoja, as the most senior High Chief, deserves the opportunity to ascend to the revered position of Olubadan, despite his refusal to conform to the new criteria requiring the wearing of the beaded crown.
Subscribe to National Updates for more News
