In a sharp response to the ongoing controversy surrounding the appointment of the new Alaafin of Oyo, the traditional Kingmakers, known as the Oyomesi, have issued a stern warning to Governor Seyi Makinde. The group has demanded that the governor stop publicly disparaging their character and instead present any evidence against them in court.
This public rebuke came after Makinde, in a highly charged statement during the presentation of the new Alaafin’s staff of office, made sweeping allegations against the Oyomesi, accusing them of impropriety in their handling of the selection process. The Governor’s remarks, which were made shortly after his controversial decision to disregard the Oyomesi’s nomination of Prince Lukman Gbadegesin in favor of a different candidate, have set the stage for a bitter public and legal battle.
In an official letter sent to Makinde, which was signed by their legal representative, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Adekunle Sobaloju, the Oyomesi described the governor’s claims as not only baseless but also defamatory. The letter was endorsed by influential figures within the Oyo Kingdom, including High Chief Yusuf Akínade, Bashorun of Oyo; High Chief Wakeel Akindele, Lagunna of Oyo; High Chief Hamzat Yusuf, Akinniku of Oyo; Chief Wahab Oyetunji, and Chief Gbadebo Mufutau.
“Your Excellency, while we acknowledge your right to defend your actions, we respectfully remind you that the court is the appropriate forum for presenting evidence and arguments,” the letter read. “It is disheartening that you continue to make public statements that tarnish our integrity. These actions undermine the ongoing judicial process and reflect poorly on the high office of the Governor.”
The Kingmakers, who hold a significant role in the cultural and historical fabric of Oyo, have made it clear that they will not stand by while their reputation is besmirched without just cause. They stressed that they had consistently refrained from airing their grievances in public out of respect for the office of the governor, but now feel compelled to take a stand following what they describe as a relentless campaign of defamation.
The controversy erupted after Governor Makinde bypassed the recommendation of the Oyomesi to appoint Prince Lukman Gbadegesin as the Alaafin of Oyo, a move that has been met with widespread criticism from traditionalists and sections of the Oyo Kingdom. The governor’s decision has sparked a firestorm, with many questioning his motives and the legality of his intervention in what is traditionally a royal and cultural matter.
The Oyomesi’s objections are rooted in the fact that the nomination of the new Alaafin is the exclusive prerogative of the Kingmakers, who are responsible for upholding the rich customs and traditions of the Oyo Kingdom. They argue that the governor’s actions are not only an affront to their authority but also a breach of the longstanding customs that have governed the succession to the throne of the Alaafin for centuries.
“Your Excellency continues to undermine our authority and the traditions of the Oyo Kingdom. The Oyomesi have always acted with the highest regard for the customs of our people,” the letter continued. “To engage in public smear campaigns is unbecoming of the office you hold. We urge you to respect the integrity of the judicial process and take your claims to the appropriate legal forum.”
At the heart of the dispute is the role of the Oyomesi in the selection of the Alaafin. Traditionally, the Kingmakers play a central role in choosing the next ruler, with candidates being selected based on merit, lineage, and suitability to lead the people. In this case, the Oyomesi had recommended Prince Lukman Gbadegesin, a prominent member of the royal family, for the position. However, Governor Makinde, who was under pressure from various political and social factions, chose to install another candidate as the new Alaafin, a decision that has deeply polarized the people of Oyo State.
Governor Makinde, in his defense, has maintained that he acted in the best interests of the people of Oyo, arguing that the traditional process was flawed and needed reform. However, his failure to engage with the Oyomesi directly before making his decision has raised questions about the extent of his respect for traditional institutions in the state.
The legal battle that now looms promises to be a defining moment for both the Oyo Kingdom and Governor Makinde’s administration. If the matter proceeds to court, it will be a test of the balance between traditional authority and modern governance in Nigeria. Legal experts have suggested that the outcome could set a precedent for how similar disputes between traditional institutions and elected officials are handled in the future.
While the Oyomesi have yet to publicly state their next move, the tone of their letter suggests they are prepared for a long and drawn-out legal fight. They have made it clear that they will not allow the governor’s allegations to go unchallenged.
“Please understand that defamatory actions against us, which you have continued to engage in, may expose you to legal liability,” the letter concluded. “We urge you to cease your public attacks and allow the judicial process to resolve this matter.”
For many, the dispute highlights the ongoing tension between Nigeria’s traditional systems of leadership and the power of elected officials. The case in Oyo may have wider implications for the role of traditional rulers and kingmakers in the country, and how their influence can be balanced with the democratic process.
The conflict has also attracted significant public attention, with many citizens of Oyo State and beyond weighing in on the issue. Some have supported the Oyomesi, stressing the importance of upholding traditional values and institutions, while others have backed the governor’s decision, arguing that it was necessary to address what they see as a deeply entrenched and outdated system.