Abiola Ajimobi is set to go on a head-to-head battle of influence with the highest ranking traditional personality in the largest city of Africa over the promotion of chiefs in the state.
Abiola Ajimobi
The Oyo State Government has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the Olubadan-in-Council to reverse the promotion of Senator Rashidi Ladoja, Senator Lekan Balogun and seven other high chiefs or face sanctions.
It can be recalled that last Friday, nine traditional chieftaincy title holders were promoted by the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Samuel Odulana Odugade 1.
They are:
1. High Chief Saliu A.O. Adetunji, who was promoted from Otun Balogun to Balogun of Ibadanland
2. High Chief Sen. Lekan Balogun, formerly the Osi Olubadan now installed as the Otun Olubadan
3. High Chief Akinloye Olakulehin who moved from the Osi Balogun to the Otun Balogun rank
4. High Chief Senator Rashidi Ladoja was promoted from Ashipa Olubadan to Osi Olubadan
5. High Chief Dr Olufemi Olaifa who was also promoted from Ashipa Balogun to Osi Balogun of Ibadanland
6. High Chief Sir Eddy Oyewole who was the Ekerin Olubadan now the Ashipa Olubadan of Ibadanland
7. High Chief Tajudeen Abimbola formerly the Ekerin Balogun now Ashipa Balogun of Ibadan
8. High Chief Kola Daisi who was moved from the Ekarun Olubadan to the Ekerin Olubadan of Ibadanland
9. High Chief Solomom A. Adabale, who was promoted from the Ekarun Balogun to the Ekerin Balogun of Ibadanland.
Following this promotion, the government, in a statement entitled: “The Illegal Elevation of Nine High Chiefs in Ibadanland: The Position of the Oyo State Government” yesterday expressed disappointment with the January 1st elevation of the high chiefs and ordered a reversal on the grounds of violation the relevant chieftaincy laws guiding such promotions.
The statement, signed by the Director, Chieftaincy Matters, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr Zaccheaus Jayeola, faulted the promotion which it said was done without the mandatory approval of the government.