A powerful coalition of traditional leaders, community representatives, and prominent citizens from Ibadan have issued a strong warning to the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, against any actions perceived to disrespect Ibadan or diminish the status of its monarch, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.
The coalition includes the Mogajis (family heads) of Ibadanland, the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), other monarchs, Baales (village heads), and the Ibadan Compound Peace Initiative.
Their united statement comes in response to concerns over a recent security meeting in Ibadan, where a seating arrangement involving the Olubadan and a representative of the Alaafin was viewed as potentially undermining Ibadan’s traditional standing.
In their statement, the stakeholders firmly declared that Ibadanland should not be regarded as subordinate to Oyo or any other town in Yorubaland.
They emphasized that Ibadan has always maintained its dignity within Yoruba tradition and will continue to do so. The group called on leaders across Yorubaland to engage with the Alaafin on this matter, cautioning that the peaceful nature of Ibadan people should not be mistaken for weakness.
The statement also referenced the settled issue of the chairmanship of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs, asserting that the matter should not be reopened.
They highlighted Olubadan Oba Ladoja’s distinguished personal background as a former senator, governor, and accomplished businessman, stressing that the stool he occupies must continue to be accorded full respect.
The message concluded with a resolute declaration of Ibadan’s position: “Ibadan mesi, won o go” (Ibadan has spoken, we won’t go back). The coalition made it clear that any attempt to undermine Ibadan’s traditional institutions would be met with unified resistance from its people, who are determined to protect their heritage and dignity.
