Ola Ajayi, Ibadan

As the 32 new kings will be crowned today in Ibadan, the Olubadan of Ibadan, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Saliu Akanmu Adetunji, Aje Ogungunniso 1, has said he would boycott the coronation ceremony.

Olubadan of Ibadan

The monarch  stated that he has no hand whatsoever in the proposed coronation of High Chiefs slated for today, Sunday 27/08/2017, at Mapo Hall by the government of Abiola Ajimobi and that his name being bandied around in some quarters as the father of the day at the occasion does not enjoy his blessing.

Speaking through his Director of Media and Public Affairs, Mr Adeola Oloko, Olubadan said, “I have said it for the umpteenth time that I am opposed to the chieftaincy review and its recommendations as the process for such exercise has not been followed. Therefore, I cannot see how, as being advertised in some media houses, I could possibly play a fatherly role in an exercise that I have not endorsed?’

‘Besides, as the father of Ibadan indigenes irrespective of political and ideological persuasion, I cannot attend an occasion where local government executives of one political party have been sending text messages to the party members in Ibadanland to mobilise for the event as if it is a political rally.”

“So, as the prescribed and appointing authority on Ibadan Chieftaincy matters, I consider, until otherwise reversed, that any conferment of crowns on anybody is an exercise in futility. More so, it is going to be contemptuous for anybody to attend that programme as there are two suits that are yet to be determined before the court.

“Also, where is the humanity of the organizers of this programme when Ibadan land is still mourning the passage of the Otun Balogun, High Chief Dr. Femi Olaifa, who was one of them until Thursday 24th August?”

Meanwhile, in a curious manner, while congratulating the monarch on his 89th birthday, the governor, through his Special Adviser, Communication and Strategy, Mr. Yomi Layinka,  the governor said it was by divine arrangement and not sheer coincidence that Olubadan’s birthday was coming at a period Ibadanland was witnessing a major transformation and boost in royalty, which, he said, was poised to enhance the status of the ancient city.

Ajimobi said, “Kabiyesi, on behalf of the good people of Oyo State I rejoice with you on the occasion of your birthday, which provides another opportunity for me to thank the Almighty for preserving your life and for renewing your vigour.

“I pray for a renewed strength for you and may God continue to preserve your life to witness more years and peaceful reign in Ibadanland. During your time, may Ibadan continue to witness rapid progress and development.

“As we savour this occasion, I call on the entire citizens of Ibadanland, members of the Olubadan-in-Council and friends of our dear state at home and in the Diaspora to join me in clinking of glasses to celebrate our dear father’s 89th birthday.”

The governor prayed that the Olubadan lives long enough to join the league of centenarians, just like his immediate predecessor, late Oba Samuel Odulana, so that the people of the state would continue to draw from his fountain of knowledge.