A prominent son of Ibadan, Mogaji Abass Oloko has congratulated the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, on his emergence as the Chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs.
In a statement made available to journalists on Friday, Oloko described the development as a historic milestone for Ibadanland and a reflection of the enduring prestige, experience and leadership stature of the Olubadan stool.
According to him, Oba Ladoja’s wealth of experience in governance and traditional leadership places him in a unique position to provide purposeful leadership to the council and strengthen unity among traditional rulers across the state.
Oloko commended the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde for his visionary leadership and the wisdom he used to settle the dispute and rancour affecting the Oyo State Council of Obas and chiefs.
Speaking further on Oba Rashidi Ladoja, he said, “The emergence of the Olubadan of Ibadanland as Chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs is a moment of pride for Ibadan people. Kabiyesi is a man of integrity, wisdom and uncommon experience, both as a former governor and as a revered traditional ruler.”
Oloko noted that Oba Ladoja’s leadership would enhance harmony within the traditional institution and further reinforce the council’s role as a stabilising force in cultural preservation, peace-building and grassroots development.
“This development is not only a recognition of the personal qualities of the Olubadan but also an honour to Ibadanland. I congratulate Kabiyesi and the entire people of Ibadan on this well-deserved recognition,” he stated.
According to him, the rotational arrangement provides clarity, prevents unnecessary rivalry and ensures inclusiveness among royal fathers across the state.
“The rotational chairmanship law is a progressive step that will strengthen unity among traditional rulers and protect the integrity of the council,” Oloko said.
He expressed confidence that Oba Ladoja’s tenure as chairman would usher in a new era of cooperation, mutual respect and collective progress among traditional rulers, contributing meaningfully to peace and development in Oyo State.
Reacting to the rebuttal from the palace of the Alaafin of Oyo denying having discussion with Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde on the rotation of the chairmanship of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs, Oloko warned the monarch against causing disunity among traditional rulers in Oyo State.
He berated the monarch for disparaging a Governor who ensured due process was followed leading to his emergence as the Alaafin of Oyo.
