The Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Chief Rashidi Ladoja, yesterday kicked against Oba Abimbola Ajibola claim that Oba Owolabi Olakulehin is not yet medically fit to be crowned the new Olubadan. The stool became vacant after Oba Lekan Balogun joined his ancestors last month. Oba Olakulehin is next in line to succeed Oba Balogun, but addressing a news conference in his Ibadan home on Tuesday, Otun Balogun Ajibola said those forcing the Olubadandesignate (Olakulehin) to ascend the throne for their self-interest should give him more time to recuperate.
The kingmaker said: “He is being forced. They know he is not well. I wish he could talk to himself and say this is what I want. The rule says he must be able to recognise and speak to his people.” However, the former Oyo State Governor Ladoja, who is one of the kingmakers, faulted Ajibola position on Olakulehin health status. Addressing reporters after Eid-el-Fitr prayer, he said Ajibola comments were mere expressions of personal opinions.
Ladoja said: “The comments of Otun Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola and others on the health status of Olubadan designate are merely personal opinions which should be disregarded. “All persons who have been speaking on the Olubadan-designate’s health are not medical personnel thereby they lack the merits to speak.” The ex-governor added: “Baba Olakulehin, being an elderly person, should not be expected to exhibit youthful energy. “He is over 80 years old and should not be judged based on the actions of a much younger person.”
Speaking on Ajibola probable absence from the upcoming Olubadan-in-Council meeting convened by him scheduled for Friday, where he (Ajibola as next in Balogun line) is meant to nominate Olakulehin, Ladoja said: “If the Otun Balogun Ajibola fails to attend the meeting where he is to nominate Olakulehin, he can be replaced with another High Chief next in line. “I have already arranged for a meeting on Friday, as the Thursday earlier chosen is a public holiday. “Ajibola could be substituted if necessary. Once the nomination is done and is ratified by the Council, we shall transmit the decision to Governor Seyi Makinde for approval.”
