Punch Newspaper reports that the meeting put together by the Olubadan-in-Council is set to conclude the controversies surrounding the nomination following Oba Lekan Balogun’s passing on March 14, 2024.
The confirmation process has been marked by discord among the Ibadan crowned Obas, with some indicating they may not attend today’s crucial meeting.
A source, requesting anonymity, expressed uncertainty about the attendance of these kingmakers.
The source disclosed that “some of them (the kingmakers) will not honour the invitation, even though they were duly informed.”
Adding to the contention, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, Otun Balogun, and the next in line to the Olubadan-designate have voiced concerns over Oba Olakulehin’s physical fitness to rule.
His comment was, however, met with resistance from High Chief Rashidi Ladoja, former governor of Oyo State and Otun Olubadan, who refuted these claims during a press interaction at his Bodija residence.
Ladoja defended Olakulehin, emphasizing his maturity and capability despite his age.
“Oba Olakulehin is not a 20-year-old man… He is over 80 years old. So, we can’t expect him to act like a youth,” Ladoja remarked, labelling Ajibola’s comments as personal and inflammatory.
In a recent gathering, Oba Lateef Adebimpe, Osi Balogun of Ibadanland, along with three other kingmakers, visited Oba Olakulehin, affirming his health and fitness for the throne.
Once the kingmakers finalize their decision, the nomination will be presented to Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State for his ratification and approval.
CityNews Nigeria recalls that Governor Makinde while addressing the situation during a Sallah homage, urged focus on unity rather than division.
“The Obas-in-Council are yet to make their nomination. When they make it, it will come to me and I will either say yes or no. But that has not happened. So, why are people focusing on things that are capable of dividing us?” he questioned.
Press release Lagos, Nigeria: Sterling Financial Holdings Company PLC has achieved another milestone with…
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has said there is no regret…
President of Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote, has explained why they took the decision to…
As Christians all over the world celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the Igbo apex…
The Federal Government has budgeted N6.21bn for salaries of workers of the moribund Ajaokuta Steel…
A former Director-General of Peter Obi Presidential Campaign Organisation, Dr Doyin Okupe, says the…