The Olubadan-In-Council has condemned the planned installation and inauguration of an “Iyalode of Oyo State,” describing it as illegal and contrary to established laws.
The council emphasized that such a title is not recognized under the law.
This decision was announced during a meeting chaired by the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Akinloye Olakulehin, held on Monday at the Olubadan Palace in Ibadan.
The meeting, which lasted two hours, was attended by key members of the Olubadan-In-Council, including Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja; Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Abimbola Ajibola; Otun Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Kolawole Adegbola; Osi Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Eddy Oyewole-Foko; and others.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the council called on market leaders to suspend all planned chieftaincy installations, particularly the one scheduled for Thursday, November 28, 2024, at Mapo Hall in Ibadan. The council stressed the need for peace and order in the city and expressed concern over the increasing number of unauthorized chieftaincy titles among traders.
The council clarified that only individuals installed with the approval and knowledge of the Olubadan Palace would be recognized. It also urged market traders to avoid conflicts over political or traditional positions and focus on their core activities.
The statement reads in part:
“Information reaching the Olubadan-In-Council indicates that certain elements among market leaders in Ibadan are planning to install an ‘Iyalode of Oyo State.’ This is a gross violation of tradition and law, as the title of Iyalode is neither a toy nor a title that can be bestowed arbitrarily by any group.
“Such an installation is illegal and contradicts the Oyo State Chiefs Law 2000 and the Ibadan Chieftaincy Declaration. The appointment of Iyalode is the sole prerogative of the people of a town, under the leadership and consent of their traditional ruler.
“Each town has its own Iyalode, a revered traditional title tied to its history and heritage. It is not an honorary title to be distributed casually.”
The council also urged security agencies to intervene by apprehending those involved in organizing or benefiting from the proposed illegal installation.
