A prominent Ibadan Chief and People’s Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain in Oyo State, Chief Abass Oloko, has issued a stern warning to those blaming the Oyo State Government and the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun, over the inclusion of Alhaja Sarat Aduke’s name as Iyaloja-General during a recent state function.
Chief Oloko clarified that Dr. Olatunbosun is not responsible for the inclusion of Sarat’s name, as the organizers of the event invited her independently. He emphasized that the Commissioner merely attended the event in his official capacity and had no influence over the guest list or the program’s content.
This clarification comes in response to criticisms from the socio-cultural group, “Awa Ọmọ Oyo Progressive Movement,” which had earlier demanded the immediate sanction of Dr. Olatunbosun for allegedly flouting Governor Seyi Makinde’s order regarding the Iyaloja-General tussle. The group accused the Commissioner of defying the governor’s directive by recognizing Alhaja Sarat Aduke as Iyaloja-General at the Isese Day grand finale, held at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan.
Chief Oloko, however, refuted these allegations, stating that the Commissioner did not violate any executive order and that the decision to include Alhaja Sarat in the program was solely made by the event organizers. He further warned against unfounded accusations that could undermine the good intentions of the government.
“The organizers of the festival are the ones who invited her, not the Commissioner. It is unfair to blame Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun for something beyond his control. He has always been a dedicated and loyal member of Governor Makinde’s administration, and it is important not to tarnish his reputation with baseless claims,” Chief Oloko asserted.
He also called for unity and cooperation among all stakeholders to ensure the smooth implementation of Governor Makinde’s directives aimed at maintaining peace and order within the state’s market leadership.