“I Am Maintaining the Status Quo and Still Fully in the Iyaloja Race” — Princess Afolashade Abeo Nurudeen

Princess Afolashade Abeo Nurudeen has reaffirmed her continued participation in the race for the Iyaloja-General position in Oyo State, clarifying that her silence should not be mistaken for withdrawal but rather respect for due process and constituted authority.

Her position follows the June 2024 directive issued by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, which restrained individuals from parading themselves as Iyaloja-General amid a protracted leadership dispute within the state’s market system. The directive, communicated through the Commissioner for Trade, Investment, Industry and Cooperative, Ademola Ojo, affected both Princess Folashade Abeo and Alhaja Saratu Aduke.

Reacting to speculations about her withdrawal, Princess Abeo maintained that she remains fully committed to the process while complying with the government’s order.

“I am only maintaining the status quo and remain actively involved in the happenings surrounding the Iyaloja position in Oyo State. I am law-abiding and fully aligned with the directives of His Excellency,” she stated.

She emphasized that her aspiration remains valid and backed by proper documentation but reiterated that she would not act contrary to the government’s directive.

Princess Abeo also used the opportunity to call on the Oyo State Government, the Ministry of Trade, and the House of Assembly Committee on Trade to expedite action on the lingering dispute, noting that the leadership vacuum has adversely affected traders and artisans across the state.

“The delay in resolving this issue continues to affect market stakeholders across the state. We urge the relevant authorities to provide a clear pathway forward,” she added.

Clarifying her earlier silence, she further stated that it was a deliberate act of obedience to the rule of law:

“This is just to the notice of all relevant authorities involved. My silence didn’t mean I was out of the race, but an obedience to the rule of law. That was why my people were asked to await the decision of the government and not cause any chaos in the state.”

The ongoing market leadership crisis, which also involves disputes among Babaloja leaders and related legal matters, has been identified as a major impediment to the growth and coordination of trade associations in the state. As part of interim measures, the government has recognized Alhaji Y. K. Abass as Babaloja-General pending the final resolution of all issues.

Despite the uncertainty, Princess Abeo expressed appreciation to her supporters and urged calm, assuring that a peaceful and lawful outcome remains her priority as stakeholders await the government’s final decision.