The Otun Balogun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Tajudeen Ajibola and the Olubadan-designate, Owolabi Olakulehin, resolved their differences on Thursday, July 4, as the two men embraced during a visit by Ibadan obas (Royal Majesties and Royal Highnesses) to pay homage to Olakulehin.
Ajibola had opposed Olakulehin’s suitability for the Olubadan throne, citing health concerns. He called for Olakulehin to be given adequate time to prepare before his coronation as Olubadan, sparking discord among the Olubadan-in-Council, Mogajis, the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), and some Chiefs in Ibadanland.
The throne became vacant following the death of the 42nd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Lekan Balogun. Hpwever, speaking at Olakulehin’s residence at Alalubosa, 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 Olakulehin.
He said: “We all know who the next Olubadan is, there is no rancour in Ibadan Chieftancy title, all we are 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 that 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.”
The Oniroko of Irokoland, Olasunkanmi Abioye Opeola, who spoke on behalf of the kings,described Olakulehin as a good king who always has the interest of Ibadanland at heart.
He said Ibadanland will witness tremendous peace, progress, and development during the reign of Olakulehin.
He pleaded with Olakulehin to permit all kings to have monthly meetings with him to update him on happenings in their respective domains.
Prince Olasumbo Owolabi Olakulehin, while reacting on behalf of Olakulehin, said the monarch has assured that Ibadan will continue to progress and witness much unprecedented development during the reign of Olakulehin as the Olubadan of Ibadanland.
