Ahead of the coronation of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, the rift between Otun Balogun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, and Olubadan-designate has been resolved.
The rift was resolved yesterday, as they embraced each other during a visit by Ibadan Obas (Royal Majesties and Royal Highnesses) to pay homage to Olakulehin.
Ajibola had earlier expressed reservations about Olakulehin’s suitability for the Olubadan throne, citing health concerns.
He posited that Olakulehin to be given adequate time to prepare before his coronation as Olubadan, thereby sparking discord among the Olubadan-in-Council, Mogajis, the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), and some Chiefs in Ibadanland.
The throne became vacant following the death of the 42nd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun.
Speaking at Olakulehin’s residence in Alalubosa, lawyer Ajibola clarified that his previous remarks were intended to ensure Olakulehin’s readiness for the position.
He emphasised their cordial relationship and expressed his support for Olakulehin’s leadership, stressing that his concern was solely for the progress and development of Ibadanland, affirming that he harboured no personal animosity towards Olakulehin.
He said, “We all know who the next Olubadan is, there is no rancour in Ibadan Chieftaincy title, all we are saying then was that we want to see the Olubadan-designate face to face, we can’t coronate a faceless Oba.
“We are happy now that he has shown his face and we can all see that he is hale and hearty. Ibadan chieftaincy title is very clear, all that happened was for the benefit of Baba, he is my close associate and we always talk together most of the time.”
