Crisis is imminent in Ibadan, Oyo State, no thanks to a threat from Monarch-Chiefs installed by Governor Abiola Ajimobi.
On Monday, they gave the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu Adetunji, a 21-day ultimatum to retrace his steps against Ajimobi or be removed from office.
Led by Otun Olubadan, Chief Lekan Balogun, they also accused Oba Adetunji of alleged abuse of office.
The elevation of Balogun and others to crown-wearing status by Ajimobi is already a subject of litigation. Prior to their elevation, Olubadan, remained the only crown-wearing monarch in the ancient city.
The monarch-chiefs, operating under the auspices of Ibadan Council of Obas, issued a notice of dethronement to the Olubadan, accusing him of acts unbecoming of his office as the paramount ruler of the ancient city.
They addressed a press conference at Mapo Hall, Ibadan where they detailed all the alleged sins of Olubadan and gave him 21 days to retrace his steps or be removed from office.
Among the many allegations leveled against the monarch was taking actions on behalf of the council without input from members.
They also accused him of inciting people against the state government, which, according to them, was not representative of the relationship between the council and the government.
The monarch-chiefs were particularly angry that all the issues pending between them and the Olubadan, which almost led to taking legal action against the monarch in the past, are still not addressed by him.
“Olubadan-in-Council meetings are not conducted the way they are supposed to be. Oloris were still attending meetings with us and contributing, dictating, attacking that resulted to abuses and curses on the High Chiefs.
“The appointment of Baales and Mogajis are not in compliance with proper set up rules and standards.
“Apart from the monetary scandals of which kabiyesi is yet to refrain, a new Olubadan-in-Council is inside Popoyemoja Palace consisting of Olubadan, the Oloris and PA to Olubadan (Tairu) who decide from time to time who is to be Baale or Mogaji and will only send Hearing Notice of meeting and agenda to the real members of Olubadan-in-Council on Saturday, preceding the installation date on Monday,” the address read by Balogun said.
They also accused the Olubadan of allowing interests within and outside the palace to manipulate him to their own advantage.
They said this was the reason the palace has barely witnessed peace since his ascension.
Though they said they were not keen on deposing the Olubadan, they said if he fails to mend his ways within the next 21 days, the council will recommend his removal from office to the governor.
Apart from the initial ‘sins’ which they said were yet to be addressed, the Olubadan, they alleged, has added some others, necessitating the new ultimatum.
“The Olubadan, Oba Adetunji, has since after the inauguration of the Beaded Crown Obas in Ibadan cultivated himself to misbehave by engaging in acts to cause civil disorder by parading himself about with some unscrupulous Mogajis in Ibadanland, inciting people to rise up against the legitimate government of our amiable governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi.
“This is a serious offence which we the Ibadan Council of Obas can pass a Vote of No Confidence on him, after which we as king makers that nominated and appointed him for confirmation and approval by the Executive Governor will also call for his removal.
“We are by this Conference giving His Imperial Majesty 21 days ultimatum to change his stand now and work for the improvement of Ibadan rather than disorderliness,” they said.
With Balogun at the press conference were Owolabi Olakulehin, Balogun of Ibadaland; Abimbola Tajudeen Ajibola, Osi Balogun of Ibadanland; Eddy Oyewole, Ashipa Olubadan of Ibadanland; Lateef Gbadamosi Adebimpe, Ashipa Balogun of Ibadanland; Amidu Ajibade, Ekarun Olubadan of Ibadanland; and Kola Adegbola, Ekarun Balogun of Ibadanland.
