Two prominent Ibadan Mogajis have cautioned the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade against what they described as disparaging comments directed at Governor Seyi Makinde, particularly over remarks concerning the beaded crowns recently presented to elevated chiefs in Oyo town.
In a joint statement issued on Tuesday, Mogaji Abass Oloko and Mogaji Ademola Olasomi Oladosu expressed concern over the Alaafin’s reference to the crowns as “ade pali”, a term they said was used in a ridiculing manner.
The Mogajis stated that the elevation of certain chiefs and the presentation of beaded crowns were carried out within the bounds of tradition and with due consultation.
“It is inappropriate to deride the beaded crowns presented to elevated chiefs by referring to them as ‘ade pali’,” the statement read.
“Such comments are not only disrespectful to the beneficiaries but also to the constituted authority of the state, including Governor Seyi Makinde.”
They noted that a similar exercise had been conducted in Ibadanland with the consent and approval of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, stressing that the process was neither novel nor unlawful.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the elevation of chiefs in Ibadanland was done with the express consent of the Olubadan of Ibadanland and in line with existing chieftaincy declarations,” he Mogajis said.
“It is therefore misleading to suggest that what occurred in Oyo town is out of place.”
The Ibadan chiefs urged the Alaafin to refrain from comments that could inflame tensions or undermine the authority of the state government.
“We must all be guided by decorum and mutual respect in our public utterances. Our traditional institutions should serve as pillars of unity, not sources of discord,” they added.
The Mogajis further reminded the Alaafin that there are two Agbaakin title holders in Oyo town from the same quarters, noting that such precedents reflect the flexibility and dynamism within Yoruba traditional structures.
They called on all stakeholders to prioritise harmony and collaboration in the interest of peace and development across Oyo State.