Ajibola and Olubadan-designate Reconcile Ahead of Coronation

Ahead the coronation of the Olubadan-designate, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, the rift between the monarch and the Otun Balogun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola has been resolved.

The dispute was resolved on Thursday as both men embraced each other during a visit by Ibadan Obas to pay homage to Olakulehin ahead of his coronation.

Ajibola had earlier expressed reservations about Olakulehin’s suitability for the Olubadan throne, citing health concerns.

He earlier advocated for adequate time for Olakulehin before his coronation as Olubadan, which sparked a discord among the Olubadan-in-Council, Mogajis, the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), and some Chiefs.

The throne became vacant following the death of the 42nd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Mahood Olalekan Balogun.

Speaking at Olakulehin’s residence in Alalubosa area of Ibadan, Oba Ajibola, a lawyer, clarified that his previous remarks were aimed at ensuring Olakulehin’s readiness for the position

He emphasised their cordial relationship and expressed his support for Olakulehin’s leadership, stressing that his concern was solely for the progress and development of Ibadanland, affirming that he harboured no personal animosity towards the Olubadan-designate.

He said, “We all know who the next Olubadan is, there is no rancour in Ibadan Chieftancy title. All we were saying then, was that we want to see the Olubadan-designate face to face, we can’t coronate a faceless Oba.

“We are happy now that he has shown his face and we can all see that he is hale and hearty. Ibadan chieftaincy title is very clear. All that happened was for the benefit of Baba; he is my close associate and we always talk together most of the time.”

Speaking on behalf of other traditional leaders, the Oniroko of Irokoland, Oba Olasunkanmi Abioye Opeola, described Olakulehin as a good king who always has the interest of Ibadanland at heart.

He said Ibadanland would witness tremendous peace, progress, and development during the reign of Olakulehin.

He pleaded with Olakulehin to permit all monarchs to have monthly meetings with him to update him on happenings in their respective domains.

Reacting on behalf of the Olubadan-designate, Prince Olasumbo Owolabi Olakulehin said the monarch assured that Ibadan will continue to progress, and witness much unprecedented development during the reign of Olakulehin as the Olubadan of Ibadanland.