National Telescope national telescope newspaper
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin Ige Olakulehin I, has advocated for the inclusion of traditional rulers in the governance structure of Nigeria, emphasizing the need for a legislative framework to formalize their roles.
Speaking through the Ekaarun Balogun of Ibadanland, High Chief (Senator) Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli, the Olubadan made this call during a courtesy visit by the Soun of Ogbomosoland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Afolabi Ghandi Olaoye Orumogege III, to his palace in Oke Aremo, Ibadan, on Tuesday.
“The people of Ibadan and Ogbomoso have had a long-standing, beneficial relationship since both cities were founded by warriors.
Traditional rulers are closest to the people and play a vital role in society, even before colonial times. I call on the federal government to enact laws that will restore the relevance and pride of place traditional rulers once had,” said the Olubadan.
He stressed that enacting such legislation would help preserve cultural values and ensure that traditional institutions regain their respect and dignity.
Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole, President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), echoed the Olubadan’s sentiments, calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to restore the respect and authority traditional rulers once enjoyed before the colonial era. “Traditional rulers should be given their rightful place in national governance,” he said.
During the visit, the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Afolabi Ghandi Olaoye, highlighted the significance of unity among traditional rulers across the South West. He also shared his personal connection to Ibadan, having been born and raised in the city. “I was born, schooled, and worked in Ibadan. I grew up admiring the Olubadan from afar, and today, it is a privilege to sit beside him on this historic throne,” the Soun remarked.
The visit underscored the strong bond between Ibadan and Ogbomoso, with both monarchs reiterating their commitment to preserving and promoting cultural heritage and unity among traditional rulers.
The Olubadan was joined by other high-ranking chiefs, including Asipa Olubadan, Oba Abiodun Kola-Daisi, Ekerin Olubadan, Oba Amidu Ajibade, and Ekerin Balogun, High Chief Akeem Mobolaji Adewoyin. The Soun was accompanied by notable chiefs from Ogbomoso, including Aare Ago, High Chief S.S. Otolorin and Ikolaba, High Chief Adeniran Ojo.
