The Otun Balogun Olubadan of Ibadan land, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, and scores of traditional rulers in Ibadan have paid their first Royal homage to the Olubadan-designate, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.
The Royal visit to the Alalubosa GRA home of the Olubadan-designate that happened on Thursday also signals the end of the controversies that the Olubadan stool has attracted over the past few weeks.
Speaking with journalists after the visit, the Otun Balogun, who has been a vocal voice in the series of events surrounding the emergence of the new Olubadan, noted that there is no doubt that Oba Owolabi Olakulehin is the rightful person for the throne.
“We all know the chieftaincy process in Ibadan is straightforward but what we had issues with back then is that we did not see baba on time and someone was coming to call meetings and all; it was a wrong process. That’s why we said no, Ibadan belongs to all of us. We must see the person that wants to be king.
“Baba then came out. He even came to Mapo and we saw him. We then met with the Governor and decided that Oba Olakulehin should ride on, it’s his time. Thats why we came to see him today. He’s our King. This is our first Royal visit,” he said.
While addressing the Olubadan-designate and other traditional rulers present, the Otun Balogun explained that everything that happened was in the interest of the city.
“From time immemorial, I am his (Olakulehin) confidant and everything I did was for his benefit. He is our father in Ibadan and even across Oyo State. We spoke up and you answered us. Ibadan does not belong to one person, it belongs to all of us. We are grateful to the Governor for his leadership, the advisory council to the Governor for their support, and the Center Council of Ibadan Indigenes,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Oniroko of Iroko and chairman of various Royal Highnesses, Oba Olasunkanmi Abioye, who spoke on behalf of other traditional rulers, expressed delight that the Olubadan-designate welcomed them.
“We are all happy, even to see Olubadan face-to-face because the rumor going round that Olubadan can not sit on his seat and he can not talk. But we are happy today that Baba surprised everybody here. We are very happy to visit him,” he said.
Speaking on his expectations for the reign of the Olubadan-designate, he noted that “Baba is a retired soldier. I think he will not tolerate bribes because that’s his usual behavior. He will behave as a responsible Olubadan and Ibadan will move forward.”
Speaking on behalf of the palace, the crown prince, Olasupo Owolabi Olakulehin, expressed gratitude to members of the Olubadan-in-council and traditional rulers present.
“We are grateful to members of the Olubadan in council for their support and prayers. To all the Royal Highnesses, we are grateful. The King has taken note of your request and we will work to ensure that you are able to see him frequently. During his time, Ibadan will progress. In the name of our forefathers, Ibadan will never experience retrogression,” he added.
