A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Wole Olanipekun, has urged the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, Arusa 1, to bring his wealth of experience as successful administrator and revered traditional ruler to bear in uniting traditional rulers in the Southwest region of the country.
Olanipekun, who made the call during a courtesy visit to the Olubadan at his Oke-Aremo palace, Ibadan on Tuesday, stressed the need for a sustained unity among the traditional rulers to advance the course of the region
The legal luminary the monarch to make use of his wealth of experience as former governor, senator and entrepreneur for the stability of the regional traditional institution.
He described Oba Ladoja as a leading figure among the traditional rulers in Yorubaland, noting that the history of the ancient town and the role that it played in wading off the invasion of the Fulani Jihadist could not be forgotten.
“It is of note how Ibadan warlords fought gallantly to defend the territorial integrity of the Yorubaland during Kiriji war, Ijaiye war, Jalumi to mention but few.
“With all these in minds, people are looking unto Ladoja as a foremost tradional rulers to bring his wealth of experience to bear in giving the traditional rulers a uniform identity.
“Oba Ladoja has seen it all as a governor and senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. His impeachment case and the Supreme Court ruling that invalidate the decision of the House of Assembly has become a reference case.
“Lawyers always make reference to this case whenever such matter arises either at the lower or upper courts.
“Many governors have been saved through the case instituted by Ladoja from any form of unconstitutional impeachment from office.
“As a traditional ruler that have weathered many storms, all eyes are on you.
“We must ensure that unnecessary cracks are not created on the walls of the traditional rulers in Yorubaland so that the onslaught of the lizard can be checkmate.” He stated
Responding, Oba Ladoja, who acknowledged the Olanipekun’s role in the promotion of the legal profession, called for timely dispensation of justice.
“There is need for speedy dispensation of cases at the various courts. Litigants are being discouraged with the delayed being experience in the dispensation of justice” he said.