The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, has taken steps to address the long-running chieftaincy crisis in Ido town, Ido Local Government Area of Oyo State, following claims to the Onido of Ido stool by three different individuals.
The revered traditional ruler announced that he has set up a committee to investigate and resolve the controversy surrounding the Onido stool, a development that has brought relief to many residents who have endured years of tension and uncertainty.
The crisis centres on three men who have been laying claim to the Onido title. They are Benjamin Ademola Ishola Orobiyi, Tajudeen Akinola, and Muritala Babalola. All three have, at different times, presented themselves as the rightful Onido of Ido, leading to confusion, division contentious debates, and division within the community.
Ido town, which is under the Ibadan traditional system, has witnessed growing concern over the dispute, with residents and community leaders calling for urgent intervention by the Olubadan to restore order and unity.
Oba Ladoja made his position known in a statement signed by his Media Aide, Adeola Oloko. A copy of the statement was made available to journalists on Thursday.
In the statement, the Olubadan confirmed that a special panel has been constituted to look into the matter thoroughly and make recommendations that would help bring the crisis to an end.
According to the Olubadan, the committee was set up to resolve the issue peacefully and fairly, in line with tradition and justice. He urged all parties involved to cooperate fully with the panel to ensure a smooth and credible process.
“The committee has been set up to resolve the matter amicably,” the statement said.
It further explained that part of the panel’s assignment is to examine both the remote and immediate causes of the Onido stool crisis.
“The second mandate of the panel is to make far-reaching recommendations that would guide the Olubadan and his council in resolving the 19-year-old crisis once and for all,” the statement added.
The Onido of Ido is a respected traditional title in Ido town, with responsibilities that include community leadership, cultural preservation, and serving as a link between the people and the Ibadan traditional authority. Any dispute over such a stool often has serious social and cultural implications.
The current situation, where three individuals are laying claim to the same stool, has reportedly affected peace and development in the area. Community activities, traditional rites, and even local governance have been impacted by the lack of a universally recognised traditional ruler.
Residents say the crisis has lingered for nearly two decades, creating deep divisions among families and quarters in the town. Some community members have accused past administrations and traditional authorities of failing to address the issue decisively.
Chieftaincy disputes are not new in many parts of Nigeria, especially in the South-West, where traditional institutions remain strong and influential. Such disputes often arise from disagreements over succession rules, family lineage, or interpretation of customary laws.
In Oyo State, several communities have experienced similar challenges in the past, with some cases lasting for years before resolution. In many instances, intervention by senior traditional rulers, such as the Olubadan, has been key to restoring peace.
Oba Ladoja’s decision to set up a committee is therefore seen as a critical step towards ending the crisis in Ido. Observers say the credibility and fairness of the panel will play a major role in determining whether the dispute can finally be resolved.
Although details of the committee’s membership were not disclosed in the statement, it is expected to include respected chiefs, legal experts, and individuals with deep knowledge of Ibadan and Ido traditions.
By asking all stakeholders to cooperate, the Olubadan appears determined to avoid further tension and ensure that the process is inclusive and transparent.
Community leaders in Ido have welcomed the development, expressing hope that the intervention will bring lasting peace. Some residents say they are tired of the long-standing conflict and want a clear and legitimate Onido to lead the town.
“This problem has affected us for many years,” said a resident who spoke anonymously. “We want peace and development. We hope the Olubadan’s committee will finally settle it.”
Others have urged the three claimants to respect the outcome of the committee’s findings, regardless of personal interests.
The Olubadan-in-Council is the highest traditional authority in Ibadanland, and its decisions on chieftaincy matters carry great weight. Traditionally, the Olubadan plays a central role in approving and installing traditional rulers within Ibadan and its satellite towns, including Ido.
Oba Ladoja, who ascended the throne in 2024, has repeatedly expressed commitment to peace, unity, and respect for tradition across Ibadanland. His intervention in the Ido crisis aligns with his broader role as custodian of culture and tradition.
As the committee begins its work, many eyes will be on its findings and recommendations. For residents of Ido, the hope is that after 19 years of disagreement, the town can finally move forward with a recognised and respected traditional ruler.