Olubadan is the head of Oyo Obas — Asipa Olubadan-designate

The Asipa Olubadan of Ibadanland-designate, Oba Hamidu Ajibade, has declared that the Olubadan of Ibadanland is the head of all traditional rulers in Oyo State.

In a now-viral interview video, Oba Ajibade dismissed arguments suggesting that the Alaafin of Oyo should hold the position of permanent chairman of the state’s Council of Obas.

He emphasised Ibadan’s historical role in warfare and its longstanding influence in the state, stressing that Ibadan stands above other traditional stools.

He maintained that Ibadan would always take precedence in the hierarchy of Oyo traditional rulers.

According to him, leadership in Ibadan prioritises the welfare and progress of its people, noting that the focus of the Olubadan-designate, Oba Rasidi Ladoja, remains ensuring youth employment and preventing social decline in the city.

He said, “Oyo used to come and seek the assistance of Ibadan during wars. Ijaiye palm tree should be asked about the war of Ogunmola, as Ogunmola in Beere went to support the Alaafin.

“Ibadan people are warriors. All those arguments they are making are unnecessary. Whoever becomes king in Ibadan focuses on the progress of the city, ensuring that the children do not go astray and that they are gainfully employed. That is what Ladoja is committed to, and that is what we have asked him to continue doing.

“Ibadan will be the first chairman of traditional rulers in Oyo State. Ibadan is the head of others.”

This is coming a few months after the Oyo State House of Assembly approved a bill mandating the rotation of the chairmanship of the Council of Obas among the Alaafin of Oyo, Olubadan of Ibadanland, and the Soun of Ogbomosoland.

Tribune Online reports that the legislation, passed in May, followed extensive debate among lawmakers and traditional stakeholders, with the arrangement designed to address long-standing rivalry over the leadership of the council.