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Ibadan, Oyo State – In a bold and unequivocal statement that has ignited fierce debate across the Yoruba traditional landscape, Chief Abas Oloko, a prominent Mogaji of Ibadanland, has demanded the immediate withdrawal of the chieftaincy title of Chief Ladi Abas as Aare Opitan of Ibadanland. The call comes after a series of remarks attributed to Chief Laji Abas that, according to Mogaji Oloko, constitute a direct affront to the Olubadan and the historic heritage of Ibadanland.
Mogaji Oloko, speaking exclusively to Naija Today News, expressed profound disappointment at what he describes as Chief Laji Abas’s “turning the history of Ibadanland and the entire Yorubaland upside down.” The controversy erupted during the 15th anniversary celebration of “Itan Yoruba,” when Chief Laji Abas allegedly proclaimed that Oyo is the king‑maker while Ibadan is merely a warrior. Such assertions, Mogaji Oloko warned, undermine the revered status of Ibadan as a bastion of Yoruba culture and tradition.
The Mogaji further alleged that Chief Laji Abas has been actively supporting the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, in fomenting discord among Yoruba monarchs. “He is supporting the Alaafin of Oyo and disrespecting the Olubadan of Ibadanland,” Mogaji Oloko asserted. He reminded the public that it was the late Olubadan, Oba Adetunji Akanmu Aje Ogungunniso, who conferred the title of Aare Opitan upon Chief Laji Abas, an honor bestowed in recognition of his service to Ibadanland.
In light of these grievances, Mogaji Oloko has formally appealed to the current Olubadan, Oba (Sen) Abdulrashidi Adewolu Akanmu Ladoja ARUSA 1, to rescind the title. “He is claiming Ibadanland, speaking against the land, and attacking the high chief of Ibadanland,” the Mogaji said, emphasizing that the continued holding of the title by a perceived detractor erodes the dignity of the institution.
The Mogaji also highlighted the conspicuous absence of the Olubadan and other senior chiefs from Chief Laji Abas’s anniversary celebration, interpreting it as a silent protest against the alleged disrespect. “Whosoever speaks against Ibadanland will find no market for his words, and such a person will never enjoy the favor of the sons and daughters of Ibadanland, both at home and abroad,” he warned.
Public reaction has been swift, with many traditionalists and citizens calling on Chief Laji Abas to issue a public apology to the Olubadan and the people of Ibadanland. The debate has transcended the confines of the palace, sparking discussions on the limits of free speech within traditional institutions and the responsibilities that accompany honorary titles.
Efforts to obtain a response from Chief Laji Abas have thus far been unsuccessful; he has not commented on the allegations. Observers note that the outcome of this dispute could have far‑reaching implications for the relationship between Ibadanland and other Yoruba monarchies, as well as for the tenure of title holders who are perceived to act contrary to the interests of their benefactors.
As the matter unfolds, all eyes remain on the Olubadan’s council and the broader traditional hierarchy to see how they will address this challenge to their authority and the sanctity of Ibadan’s cultural heritage. The resolution, whichever direction it takes, is expected to set a precedent for accountability among traditional title holders across Nigeria.
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