In a dramatic turn of events, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State narrowly escaped a potential crisis in Ibadanland by approving the nomination of Owolabi Olakulehin as the 43rd Olubadan, just 48 hours before the planned coronation ceremony. This move came after months of delay and speculation, which had sparked concerns about a rift between Makinde and former Governor Rashidi Ladoja.
Sources close to the matter revealed to this newspaper that Makinde’s reluctance to approve Olakulehin’s nomination was due to his strained relationship with Ladoja, who is next in line to the throne. Despite Ladoja’s denial of any frosty relations with the governor, Makinde’s approval was seen as a strategic move to avert a crisis and maintain peace in Ibadanland. The relationship between Makinde and Ladoja has been a subject of interest in recent months, with many speculating about a rift between the two leaders.
The approval came after Makinde had received criticism for his handling of the Olubadan succession process. His spokesman, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, announced the approval in a terse statement that neither included Olakulehin’s fitness result nor the date of presentation of staff of office. This lack of transparency had fueled speculation and tension in Ibadanland, with many wondering about the fate of the Olubadan succession.
Ladoja, who heads the Afobaje, had hinted at a possible coronation ceremony without government interference, citing traditional rights. This move was supported by Lanre Ogundipe, a former NUJ president and son of a former Olubadan, who argued that the coronation is a traditional affair that can take place without government involvement. Ogundipe’s statement had sparked debate about the role of government in traditional affairs, with some arguing that the presentation of staff of office is a colonial legacy that should be discarded.
As the people of Ibadanland await the coronation ceremony, the question remains whether the event will proceed as planned or if a new date will be announced. One thing is certain – the eyes of Ibadanland are fixed on the palace, awaiting the emergence of a new Olubadan. The coronation ceremony is a significant event in Ibadanland, and many are eager to see the new Olubadan take his rightful place on the throne.
In the midst of this tension, Makinde’s approval of Olakulehin’s nomination has been seen as a strategic move to avert a crisis and maintain peace in Ibadanland. However, the question remains whether the coronation will proceed as planned or if a new date will be announced. One thing is certain – the eyes of Ibadanland are fixed on the palace, awaiting the emergence of a new Olubadan.
Source: Oyoinsight
