Lateef Popoola has submitted an affidavit to the Oyo State High Court in Ibadan, claiming that the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Lekan Balogun, is planning to revoke Chief Rashidi Ladoja’s status as Otun Olubadan. Popoola alleges that the plot began after Ladoja declined Governor Seyi Makinde’s offer to elevate Ibadan High Chiefs to crown-wearing Obas.
Ladoja, an Ibadan High Chief, refused to participate in the coronation ceremony where he and 10 other Ibadan High Chiefs were supposed to be elevated to the status of crown-wearing Obas. He stated that his ambition had always been to become the Olubadan of Ibadan.
In response to the elevation of the High Chiefs, Ladoja filed a lawsuit against the Olubadan, claiming that the elevation was illegal and an attempt to divide the Olubadan in Council.
Popoola, a witness supporting Ladoja’s case, stated in his affidavit that Ibadan traditionally recognizes only the Olubadan as the king, who wears a crown, while the other chiefs are identified by their beads. He argues that it is not within the purview of the Olubadan to elevate any member of the Olubadan in Council or High Chief to the status of a royal majesty.
Popoola further claims that if Ladoja refuses the crown, the Olubadan plans to strip him of his Otun Olubadan title and prevent him from ascending the throne of Olubadan in the future.
The Olubadan Advisory Council has responded to Ladoja’s allegations, dismissing them as unfounded and erroneous. They state that no one becomes the Olubadan without nomination by the Ibadan kingmakers, consisting of members of the Advisory Council. The council adds that Ladoja should introspect and acknowledges that one person cannot stand against ten others, emphasizing that the matter will be settled in court.
The lawsuit is pending, and no hearing has commenced yet. The newly-crowned Ibadan Obas express gratitude to the Olubadan for their elevation, considering it a historic achievement for the Olubadan throne.
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