The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) has issued a strong warning to politicians in Oyo State, cautioning them against making statements or taking actions that could be seen as disrespectful to the revered stool of the Olubadan of Ibadanland.
The warning comes amid rising political tension in the state and growing concerns over what the council described as reckless utterances and behaviour by some political actors, especially within Ibadan, the state capital.
In a statement released on Monday, the President-General of the CCII, Ajeniyi Ajewole, said the council would not tolerate any attempt to undermine or ridicule the traditional institution. The statement was made available to the public through the council’s Publicity Secretary, Kola Olomide.
Ajewole stressed that the Olubadan stool remains sacred to the people of Ibadanland and must be treated with the highest level of respect at all times. According to him, recent comments and actions by some politicians have crossed acceptable limits and now pose a threat to the dignity of the traditional institution.
“The stool is sacred to the people of Ibadanland and must be treated with the highest respect at all times,” he said. “Any attempt to denigrate the revered stool will be met with severe consequences.”
The Olubadan of Ibadanland is one of the most respected traditional rulers in Yorubaland and across Nigeria. The institution has a long history dating back several centuries and is known for its unique succession system, which is widely regarded as one of the most orderly and predictable in the country. The Olubadan is seen not only as a traditional ruler but also as a symbol of unity and cultural identity for the people of Ibadan.
Ajewole described the Olubadan as a father figure to all residents and indigenes of Ibadan, regardless of their political affiliations, religion, or social status. He warned that all politicians in the state must remember that they are subjects of the traditional ruler and must conduct themselves accordingly.
“All politicians in Oyo are sons and daughters of the Olubadan. They must conduct themselves with decorum, restraint, and absolute respect for the institution,” he said.
The council expressed particular concern over situations where politicians publicly insult one another or use offensive language, including curses, during political disagreements. According to the CCII, such behaviour is not only irresponsible but also harmful to the peace and unity of the state.
In recent times, political rivalry in Oyo State has intensified, with various groups and individuals positioning themselves ahead of future elections. Analysts say this has led to heated exchanges, accusations, and counter-accusations among political actors.
However, the CCII warned that political competition must not be allowed to spill over into attacks on traditional institutions. Ajewole made it clear that any attempt to insult or drag the Olubadan stool into political disputes would not be tolerated.
“Any attempt at casting aspersions on the person of the Olubadan and the stool, and then turning around to apologise, will no longer be accepted,” he said. “If you disrespect that stool, you must be ready to face the consequences.”
He further highlighted that the palace of the Olubadan cannot and will never be used as a tool for political gain. According to him, the institution represents the strength, unity, and heritage of the Ibadan people and must remain above partisan politics.
“The palace can never become any politician’s pawn; it is our symbol of strength and unity,” Ajewole stated. “This is the last time such behaviour will be tolerated. Let politicians be warned.”
The CCII also reiterated that the Olubadan institution has always maintained neutrality in political matters. The council noted that the traditional ruler has continued to show respect to all political actors, irrespective of party affiliation, and expects the same level of respect in return.
In many parts of the country, including Oyo State, traditional rulers serve as mediators during conflicts and help promote unity among different groups. As a result, any perceived attack on such institutions can quickly lead to tension within the community.
Ajewole called on all political actors in the state to exercise caution in their words and actions. He urged them to focus on issues that will benefit the people rather than engaging in personal attacks or divisive rhetoric.
“Politics should never be reduced to insults, curses, or hostility,” he said. “We urge all political actors to rise above bitterness and act in the interest of peace and unity.”
Residents of Ibadan have also expressed concern over the increasing level of tension in the political space. Some community members believe that if not properly managed, the situation could affect peace in the city.
A local trader in Ibadan, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said politicians should remember that their actions have consequences.
“They should be careful what they say. This is not just about politics; it is about our tradition and our respect for our leaders,” she said.
Another resident noted that the Olubadan institution has always been a source of pride for the people of Ibadan and should not be dragged into political disputes.
“This stool is very important to us. It represents who we are as a people. Politicians should leave it out of their fights,” he said.
The CCII reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the dignity and sanctity of the Olubadan stool. The council also called on other stakeholders, including community leaders, elders, and civil society groups, to join in ensuring that respect for traditional institutions is upheld at all times.
As political activities continue to build up in Oyo State, many observers say the warning by the CCII serves as a reminder of the need for responsible conduct among political actors.
For now, the message from Ibadan indigenes is clear: while political competition is expected in a democratic system, it must not come at the cost of respect for culture, tradition, and institutions that have stood the test of time.
The council’s warning is likely to shape the tone of political discourse in the state in the coming months, as politicians prepare for future contests while being reminded to tread carefully in matters involving the revered Olubadan stool.