A Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Niyi Akintola, has defended the legitimacy of the recent elevation ceremony of Ibadan high chiefs to royal status, insisting that the absence of the newly crowned monarchs does not invalidate the exercise.
Speaking during a political programme on Fresh FM Nigeria anchored by ace broadcaster Isaac Brown and monitored by Goalpoachernews, Akintola maintained that the process was conducted in full compliance with the law and long-standing traditions of Ibadanland.
“The fact that the newly elevated kings were not present at the ceremony yesterday does not invalidate the event. One of them had written to be promoted, and the government has done the right thing.“
“Everything that happened was within the ambiance of the law. People should take time to read and understand,” he said.
He explained that due representation at such ceremonies is well recognised within both legal and traditional frameworks, citing the roles played by key figures during the event.
According to him, “The Olubadan was duly represented by Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, the Balogun of Ibadanland, who even made a speech on behalf of the Olubadan.
“The Olubadan has not denied that representation.
Similarly, the Deputy Governor stood in for the Governor, and that does not in any way suggest that the Governor was absent in authority.”
Akintola further clarified that the elevation confers recognised royal status on the beneficiaries, urging critics to refrain from spreading misinformation.
“Each of the newly crowned kings is now a His Royal Majesty. Unfortunately, many people commenting on social media are ignorant of the culture and traditions of Ibadanland. These are well-established practices that must be respected,” he stated.
The legal luminary also drew historical parallels to emphasise that such developments are not unprecedented within the traditional system.
He noted, “High Chief Adedibu was not an Oba before his political challenges at the time.
“The then Olubadan, late Oba Odulana Odugade told the then Ashipa Olubadan, late Lamidi Adedibu to quit partisan politics.
“It took the intervention of respected figures like the late Arisekola and others to ease tensions within the palace.“
“These matters are rooted in tradition, and people must endeavour to understand them rather than speculate.”
Akintola urged the public to seek proper knowledge of Ibadan’s chieftaincy system and avoid misinterpretations that could undermine respect for established institutions.
