The Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, has urged the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, to steer clear of partisan politics, in order to preserve the dignity of the Ibadan traditional institution.
Oba Ajibola also charged the Ekarun Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Sharafadeen Alli, who currently represents Oyo South Senatorial District, to stay away from political engagements and focus more on his responsibilities within the traditional hierarchy under the Olubadan.
The monarch gave the charge on Friday, while speaking at a press conference held at his Sanyo residence, stressing the need for the highly revered monarchs must remain non-partisan and above political affiliations.
According to Oba Ajibola, “My personal advice to Baba Olubadan is simple. I have nothing against him, and I hold him in high regard.
“I do not want anything that will bring his office into disrepute, because I believe in the institution he represents.
“He should tread carefully and stay away from politics. The Olubadan is a revered traditional ruler, and his name should not be dragged into political matters.
“I want him to continue to be respected and upheld as a symbol of unity and tradition.”
The Balogun emphasized that the traditional institution in Ibadanland must be protected from actions capable of undermining its integrity, urging all stakeholders to uphold its longstanding values of neutrality and unity.
Speaking on the controversy surrounding the coronation of Senator Alli as the Ekarun Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Ajibola warned against involvement of traditional rulers in partisan politics to avoid dragging the integrity of the throne in the mud.
He specifically cautioned Oba Alli against taking steps that may boomerang in the future, urging the serving senator to choose between the Olubadan throne or politics.
The monarch added that the amended Chieftaincy Laws of Oyo state, has made the members of the Olubadan In-council to become automatic members of Oyo state council of Obas and are duty bound to maintain political neutrality at the highest level.
This advice from the next in line to the Olubadan was coming the same day Senator Sarafadeen Alli officially declared his intention to contest in the 2027 governorship election in the state, under the All Progressives Congress, as political observers are watching with keen interest, consultations, permutations, and alignments of political parties to either present consensus candidates or eventually conduct primaries.
