The Olubadan-in-Council has declared as illegal the planned inauguration of the Iyalode of Oyo State by a group of individuals.
The decision was made during a council meeting on Monday in Ibadan presided over by the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.
In a statement issued by the Olubadan’s chief press secretary Gbenga Ayoade, the council emphasised that the proposed title was not recognised by law or tradition.
The statement read: “…The council has asked any group by whatever name called to suspend every other chieftaincy installation particularly the one slated for Thursday, November 28, 2024, at Mapo Hall in Ibadan for peace to reign in the land.”
Attendees of the meeting included notable council members such as former governor of Oyo State and Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland Oba Rashidi Ladoja alongside other high-ranking chiefs.
The Olubadan-in-Council expressed concern over the increasing proliferation of unapproved chieftaincy titles, particularly among traders, and stressed that only titles sanctioned by the Olubadan’s palace would be recognised.
The council warned market leaders in Ibadan against allowing political disputes to interfere with their commercial activities.
It also condemned the unauthorised plans to install an Iyalode of Oyo State, labelling such actions as disrespectful to traditional authority.
Referencing the current Iyalode of Ibadanland, High Chief Laduntan Oyekanmi, the council noted that she waited 42 years to ascend the position, demonstrating the importance and sanctity of the role.
The council further called on security agencies to intervene by arresting and prosecuting those behind the planned illegal installation.
