The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Engineer Abimbola Akeem Iyanda Owoade I, ElewuEtu has denied claims credited to Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, that he consulted with the monarch, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa I and the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, Orumogege III on the rotational chairmanship of the State Council of Obas and Chiefs.
This disclosure was made in statement signed by Bode Durojaiye, Director of Media and Publicity to the Alaafin and Superior Head of Yorubaland.
The palace described the claim as inaccurate, stressing that no such meeting ever took place between the Alaafin and the state governor on the issue.
The statement said at no time did the Alaafin hold any meeting with Governor Makinde or any of the two traditional rulers mentioned regarding the rotational arrangement of the chairmanship of the council.
It also clarified that the Alaafin did not make any categorical statement endorsing rotational chairmanship among the three foremost traditional rulers in the state.
According to the palace, the position of the Alaafin and the entire Oyo community on the matter had earlier been clearly communicated to the state government through a memorandum submitted by the Oyo Council of Elders.
The palace urged the public to disregard any contrary claims, reiterating that the Alaafin remains committed to the long-standing traditions and constitutional roles of the Oyo stool within the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs.
