Prominent Ibadan Mogajis, Chief Abass Oloko and Chief Ademola Oladosu, have warned political actors against involving the Olubadan of Ibadanland in what they described as “desperate and self-serving political manoeuvres.”
In a jointly signed statement released on Sunday, the traditional leaders expressed concern over what they called a growing trend of attempts to politicise the revered stool of the Olubadan, cautioning that such actions could undermine the long-standing traditions and unity of Ibadanland.
Chief Oloko stated that the Olubadan institution must remain above partisan interests. “The Olubadan is a symbol of unity, history, and cultural pride for the people of Ibadan.“
“It is unacceptable for any politician, no matter how highly placed, to drag the throne into political controversies,” he said.
He dismissed claims suggesting that the monarch had shown political preference, describing such allegations as false and mischievous.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the Olubadan did not erect billboards for any politician, neither within the palace nor at his private residence. These are fabrications intended to mislead the public and create division,” he stated.
Oloko further questioned why the Olubadan institution was being singled out, drawing comparisons with other revered traditional stools in Yorubaland.
“Do we see politicians dragging the Ooni of Ife, the Alake of Egbaland, or the Awujale of Ijebuland into controversy? The answer is no. Those institutions are accorded due respect, and the same must apply to Ibadan,” he added.
He warned that any continued attempt to politicise the throne would be firmly resisted, noting that: “The sanctity of the Olubadan stool is non-negotiable. Ibadan people will not tolerate any act that seeks to ridicule or compromise our heritage.“
Echoing this sentiment, Chief Oladosu warned that any attempt to exploit the traditional institution for political gain would be strongly resisted by the Mogajis and the broader Ibadan community.
“We will not stand by and watch the sanctity of our traditional system being eroded. Those who are desperate for relevance should seek it through legitimate political channels, not through the distortion of our heritage,” he remarked.
He emphasised that the preservation of Ibadan’s cultural integrity depends on keeping its royal institution above partisan interests.
“The stability and unity of Ibadanland are closely tied to the neutrality of the Olubadan. That must be protected at all costs,” he added.
Both Mogajis, however, called on residents and stakeholders in Ibadanland to remain vigilant and reject any attempts to politicise the revered throne.
