The process of selecting the next Olubadan faced a setback yesterday as eight kingmakers opted out of the meeting called by Chief Rashidi Ladoja, the Head of the Ibadan Traditional Council. Convened at the historic Mapo Hall, the meeting aimed to initiate proceedings leading to the appointment of the next Olubadan.
However, Chief Ladoja, also serving as the Otun Olubadan, was the sole member present from the Olubadan in Council, with the remaining eight out of eleven members abstaining from the gathering.
The Olubadan-in-Council comprises eleven members, including the Iyalode and kingmakers such as Balogun, Otun Balogun, Osi Balogun, Ashipa Balogun, and Ekerin Balogun, among others. Despite attempts to reach Oba Amidu Ajibade, the Ekerin Olubadan, for insights into the boycott, no response was received.
Reports suggest that the boycott may stem from strained relations between Chief Ladoja and the other nine members, particularly concerning the controversial beaded crowns bestowed by the late Governor Abiola Ajimobi. Ladoja opposed the revision of Ibadanland’s chieftaincy declaration and boycotted the ceremony even when Governor Seyi Makinde approved the crowning and elevation of the kings, with the exception of Ladoja.
Following the incident, Ladoja, maintaining his stance, remained the lone attendee at the meeting. He cited his role as the convener for his presence and expressed readiness for future discussions.
Addressing reporters after the disrupted meeting, Ladoja highlighted the concerns raised by other members regarding the Olubadan-designate, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin’s absence and lack of communication. Ladoja emphasized the importance of the Olubadan-designate’s involvement in the process, indicating a willingness to reconvene once clarity is attained.
When questioned about the next course of action, Ladoja reiterated the necessity for the other members to engage, stressing their reliance on communication from the Olubadan-designate before proceeding further.