The Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, has cautioned against the growing politicisation of traditional institutions in Ibadan, warning that the revered Olubadan stool must not be dragged into partisan conflicts or public controversy.
Oba Ajibola disclosed this at a press conference held at his residence on Friday in Ibadan, where he addressed recent tensions surrounding the Olubadan stool, including allegations of political interference and broader disputes involving key actors in Oyo State’s political landscape.
Speaking on the controversy linked to the Olubadan, the Balogun emphasised the need to preserve the dignity and neutrality of the traditional institution, stressing that the stool must remain above political influence.
“My personal advice to Baba Olubadan is simple. I have nothing against him, and I believe in the institution he represents. I do not want anything that will bring his office into disrepute,” he said.
He further urged the Olubadan to exercise caution and avoid actions or associations that could expose the throne to political scrutiny.
“The Olubadan should tread carefully and stay away from politics. He should not allow his name to be dragged into political matters. I want him to continue to be respected,” Oba Ajibola added.
The traditional ruler also weighed in on the controversy surrounding Senator Sharafadeen Alli, particularly his reported refusal to accept a traditional beaded crown as Ekarun Balogun of Ibadanland while remaining active in partisan politics and nursing governorship ambitions.
Oba Ajibola drew a clear distinction between legal provisions and traditional expectations, noting that while the law may permit certain actions, tradition demands a higher level of discretion and clarity of purpose.
“Law is one thing, tradition is another. It is impossible for one person to serve two masters. The law may allow you, but you must apply common sense,” he stated.
He further pointed out that the situation is made more complex by the fact that Alli is already a member of the Olubadan-in-Council and is getting paid as a traditional title holder while simultaneously serving as a senator, a development he implied raises ethical and institutional concerns.
He questioned the practicality of combining political ambition with traditional obligations, raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest.
“If you become a governor and at the same time it is your turn to become Olubadan, will you step down as governor? These are the questions one must consider. You must have foresight,” he said.
Balogun insisted that individuals must make a clear choice between pursuing political office and ascending traditional leadership, warning that attempting to straddle both could undermine the integrity of the institution.
“If you want to be in politics, be in politics. If you want to be a traditional ruler, be a traditional ruler. You don’t destroy the bed where you want to sleep. He has to declare what he wants to be,” he added.
Oba Ajibola also disclosed that the matter has not been formally deliberated upon by the Olubadan-in-Council, indicating that wider consultation among Ibadan traditional chiefs may still be required.
“We have not had the opportunity to discuss this at the Olubadan-in-Council, but I advise caution,” he said.
