New monarchs threaten to depose Olubadan over chieftaincy declaration review

The newly installed 21 monarchs in Ibadan yesterday gave the Olubadan, Oba Saliu Adetunji 21-day ultimatum to support the chieftaincy declaration review by Governor Abiola Ajimobi or be deposed.

At a press conference in Ibadan, the monarchs led by Otun Olubadan, Oba Lekan Balogun said they issued final note of caution to Oba Adetunji whose action they described as inimical to the progress of the town.

They alleged that Olubadan had committed several offences that should have compelled them to immediately passed a vote of no confidence on him. If that happens, his deposition will commence immediately.

The new rulers had been in a running battle with Olubadan since August 28 this year when they were elevated and crowned by the governor. But Olubadan had refused to recognize them as monarchs, insisting that their elevation was contrary to the customs and tradition of Ibadanland.

No fewer than five legal actions had been taking by concerned citizens against the government over the review of Olubadan declaration and installation of 21 monarchs.

The Obas were particularly angry that all the issues pending between them and the Olubadan which almost led to taking legal action against the monarch in the past are yet to be addressed by him.

Oba Balogun said: “Olubadan-in-Council meetings are not conducted properly. Oloris were still attending meetings with us and contributing, dictating and attacking that resulted to abuses and curses on the high chiefs. The appointment of Baales and Mogajis are not in compliance with proper rules and standards.”

He said that it took the intervention of the Ibadan Elders Council for the then Olubadan-in-Council members to suspend legal action proposed against the Olubadan because of his behaviour.

According to Balogun, other “sins” which may force them to depose Olubadan include his alleged engagement in acts to cause civil disorder by parading himself about with some unscrupulous Mogajis in Ibadan land, inciting people to rise up against the government.

The spokesman of the Olubadan, Adeola Oloko, said the monarch would respond to the deposition threat at the appropriate time.

He told The Guardian that the monarch was yet to get the full details of his alleged sins that warranted the ultimatum.