A prominent Ibadan chief, Mogaji Abass Oloko, has advised Adesola Adeduntan to decline his appointment as Balogun of Oyo by the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I.
Oloko’s caution comes against the backdrop of what he described as a frosty relationship between the Alaafin and key stakeholders in Ibadan.
He expressed concern that accepting the revered chieftaincy title under the current circumstances may not serve the broader interest of unity within the region.
Drawing from history, Oloko noted that the late Alaafin of Oyo conferred the title of Balogun of Oyo on the late Victor Omololu Olunloyo in recognition of his pivotal role in his emergence as monarch.
According to him, the gesture at the time reflected mutual respect and a spirit of collaboration.
He argued that such a unifying context is currently lacking, alleging that the present Alaafin has not demonstrated the same level of inclusiveness needed to sustain harmony between Oyo and Ibadan.
While acknowledging the prestige of the Balogun title, Oloko urged Adeduntan to carefully weigh the implications of accepting it, emphasizing the need to prioritize peace, cohesion, and longstanding intercity relations.
Recall that Adeduntan, a former Managing Director of First Bank of Nigeria, was recently announced as the new Balogun of Oyo, a position regarded as one of the most influential traditional titles in Oyo State.
To this end, Adeduntan will take over a title last held by the late Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, a renowned mathematician and former Governor of Oyo State.
The event is scheduled to hold on April 11 next month.
But with the latest development and advise from the elders in the land like Mogaji Abass Oloko, the world and the indigenes of Ibadanland, his hometown await his decision for or against.
