The Otun Balogun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Abimbola Tajudeen Ajibola, has appealed to all stakeholders involved in the process of selecting the new Olubadan to give the next person in line to the throne, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, more time to ascend the throne.
Oba Ajibola made the appeal while addressing journalists in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, on Tuesday.
He stated, “Before an Olubadan can be elected, there is a general rule in Ibadanland that certain conditions must be fulfilled by the most senior chief who is next in line for the throne.
It’s not simply a matter of being the most senior and automatically becoming Olubadan. If certain conditions are not met, the individual is automatically disqualified.
The conditions include not having been imprisoned for more than three months, not having been convicted for more than three months, being medically fit and sound (i.e., not being totally blind or deaf, being able to move independently, and being able to communicate with the people), and not engaging in activities prejudicial to Ibadanland.
Even if one is the most senior, if they fail to meet any of these conditions, they are automatically disqualified. Even if the kingmakers recommend someone to the governor, the governor has the discretion to determine whether the person has fulfilled all the requirements.
The governor can reject the nomination and ask for another candidate.
“So, the update so far is that we have not yet appointed an Oba. It is not yet time for the nomination of any Oba to the throne, nor is it time for the settlement of any disputes.
Anyone attempting to settle matters now may have a mischievous agenda. What are they trying to achieve? This is our contention.
“Perhaps our people do not understand; they claim that the Olubadan designate has offered money. However, money is not the sole determinant. Can he perform his duties?
If he is capable, we will be pleased; nobody disputes that. That is the update for now. Any other meeting held is null and void.”
