Tensions are simmering in Yorubaland as the Ibadan Unity Forum, a coalition of prominent sons and daughters of Ibadan, has issued a stern warning to the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, against taking the revered city of Ibadan for granted. The group’s position follows concerns over a perceived slight to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, at a recent security meeting in Ibadan, where a representative of the Alaafin was allegedly accorded a seat of higher precedence.
In a strongly-worded statement signed by Sola Olugbade, President of the Ibadan Unity Forum, the group emphasized that Ibadanland should not be regarded as subordinate to Oyo or any other town in Yorubaland. “Ibadanland deserves respect, and any attempt to undermine its traditional institutions will be met with resistance,” the statement read. The stakeholders maintained that the Olubadan, a former senator, governor, and accomplished businessman, is not to be treated as an inferior and that the stool should continue to be accorded due respect.
The Ibadan Unity Forum is calling on leaders across Yorubaland to warn the Alaafin of Oyo against misinterpreting the peaceful disposition of the people of Ibadan as weakness. “The people of Ibadan are united in their determination to protect their heritage,” the group declared. The statement highlighted the illustrious background of the Olubadan, stressing that his stature demands recognition and deference.
This development underscores the complexities of traditional politics in Yorubaland, where respect for hierarchy and protocol is paramount. The Alaafin’s actions, as perceived by the Ibadan Unity Forum, risk inflaming regional sensitivities and challenging the delicate balance of power among Yoruba traditional institutions.
The Forum’s intervention comes amid growing concerns about the erosion of Ibadan’s influence in regional affairs. By speaking out, the group aims to safeguard the dignity of the Olubadan and the people of Ibadan, ensuring their rightful place in Yorubaland’s traditional firmament.
The Ibadan Unity Forum’s statement has sparked intense debate, with many calling for calm and dialogue to prevent a full-blown crisis. However, the group’s resolve is clear, (‘Ibadan will not be taken for granted’).
In a related development, traditional leaders and stakeholders in Yorubaland are bracing for potential fallout, emphasizing the need for sensitivity and respect in inter-traditional relations.
Signed:
Sola Olugbade, President, Ibadan Unity Forum
Isiaka Okunbanjo, Secretary, Ibadan Unity Forum
