Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, the Balogun of Ibadan and next in line to the Olubadan throne, issued a stern warning against the “dangerous drift” of traditional rulers into partisan politics.
Oba Ajibola gave this warning at his place today which address members of the press at his Sanyo palace.
While speaking on rumors of political instability in Oyo State, the ranking monarch insisted that traditional authority and active politics are mutually exclusive, asserting that members of the Olubadan-in-Council must choose a side.
He emphasized that regardless of any legal gazette, a traditional ruler cannot serve “two masters” without eroding the moral authority of the crown.
The Balogun specifically addressed the controversy surrounding Senator Sharafadeen Alli (the Ekarun Balogun of Ibadan), He advised the serving senator to decide between his political career and his progression toward the Olubadan throne, noting that Alli remains a salaried member of the council.
He warned that partisan bias by monarchs would eventually “boomerang” and drag the integrity of the throne through the mud.
While Addressing whispers of a rift between Governor Seyi Makinde and Oba Rashidi Ladoja, as well as alleged impeachment plots, Oba Ajibola was dismissive stating that elders are currently managing any friction and that there is no plan to undermine the state government.
He further labeled alarmist narratives as “exaggerated” and urged residents to remain calm, maintaining that Ibadan remains peaceful.
Moreover, he reminded his peers that under the amended Chieftaincy Laws of Oyo State, council members are automatic members of the State Council of Obas.
Consequently, they are legally and ethically bound to maintain neutrality to ensure the security and unity of the state.
Moreover, he said, consultations are ongoing within the Olubadan hierarchy to address “grey areas” and enforce discipline. Oba Ajibola noted that while traditional rulers were once politically dominant, they must now operate strictly within the framework of modern law and constitutional order.
