Prominent traditional leaders and groups in Ibadanland have issued a strong warning to the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, urging him not to take Ibadan and its traditional institutions for granted. The warning follows concerns over an incident that reportedly occurred during a recent security meeting in Ibadan, where the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, was allegedly accorded a sitting arrangement considered disrespectful.
Those who raised the alarm include the Mogajis of Ibadanland, the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), traditional rulers, Baales, the Ibadan Compound Peace Initiative (ICPI), and other respected sons and daughters of the ancient city.
The stakeholders said the people of Ibadan would not accept any action capable of lowering the status of the Olubadan stool or weakening the traditional system of Ibadanland. They stressed that Ibadan has a long history of independence and leadership within Yorubaland and should not be treated as subordinate to Oyo or any other town.
The controversy reportedly arose during a security meeting held in Ibadan, where a representative of the Alaafin of Oyo was said to have been placed in a position that suggested equality or superiority over the Olubadan. Although details of the meeting remain sketchy, the seating arrangement has sparked widespread reactions among Ibadan leaders, who see it as an attempt to undermine the authority of the Olubadan.
In a joint statement signed by the President of Ibadan Mogajis, Mogaji Asimiyu Ariori, and the Coordinator of the Ibadan Compound Peace Initiative, Mogaji Dr Nurudeen Akinade, the stakeholders made their position clear.
They stated that Ibadanland should never be regarded as a subordinate entity within Yoruba traditional structure, noting that Ibadan has always maintained its dignity and status since its founding in the 19th century.
“Ibadanland has consistently upheld its dignity and standing within Yoruba tradition, and this will continue. The peaceful nature of the people of Ibadan should not be mistaken for weakness,” the statement said.
The group also called on respected leaders and traditional rulers across Yorubaland to intervene by advising the Alaafin of Oyo on the need to respect Ibadan’s traditional institutions. They warned that actions capable of creating tension between the two historic towns should be avoided in the interest of peace and unity in the region.
Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, is one of the largest cities in West Africa and has a unique traditional system different from that of Oyo. Unlike some Yoruba towns that operate a single royal lineage, the Olubadan system is based on a clear and structured succession line through the civil and military lines, which has helped prevent disputes over kingship over the years.
The stakeholders stressed that the Olubadan stool is highly respected, not only in Ibadanland but across Yorubaland, and must be treated accordingly at all times.
They also addressed concerns surrounding the chairmanship of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs, stating that the matter had already been resolved and should not be reopened. According to them, attempts to revisit the issue could further strain relationships among traditional institutions in the state.
The group further highlighted the personal background and achievements of the current Olubadan, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, saying his life of service and leadership deserves respect.
Before ascending the throne, Oba Ladoja served as a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and later as the Governor of Oyo State. He is also known as a successful businessman with decades of experience in public and private service.
According to the stakeholders, the Olubadan’s personal achievements add to the dignity of the stool, and any action that subjects him to ridicule or disrespect is unacceptable to the people of Ibadan.
“The Olubadan of Ibadanland is a man of honour and achievement. He has served this country at the highest levels and should not be treated with disrespect under any guise,” the statement added.
The leaders were also clear in their message that Ibadan would not bow to intimidation or historical misrepresentation.
“Ibadan will never be a slave to anyone. Ibadanland has always maintained its dignity in Yoruba tradition, and this will not change,” they declared.
They concluded their statement with a strong expression of unity and resolve, using the popular Yoruba phrase, “Ibadan mesi, won o go,” meaning “Ibadan has spoken, and we will not go back.”
The phrase, widely associated with resistance and determination, was used to show that the people of Ibadan are united in defending their heritage, traditions and institutions.
Community leaders and elders have often stressed the importance of dialogue and mutual respect in handling such matters, especially in a modern society where traditional institutions still play vital roles in governance, peacebuilding and cultural preservation.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official response from the palace of the Alaafin of Oyo regarding the concerns raised by Ibadan stakeholders.