The Otun Balogun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Abimbola Ajibola, declared on Tuesday that the Olubadan-designate, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, is not physically fit to assume the throne at this time.
The Olubadan stool became vacant following the demise of the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun, who reigned for two years before passing away at the age of 81.
Oba Ajibola, addressing journalists at his private residence in Sanyo, Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, stated, “Why the rush? We have not even seen him (Olakulehin). He has not communicated with us or the people of Ibadan.
“I am his second in command, his lieutenant. Yet, he has not reached out to inform me of his return or discuss his plans. They are merely pressuring him due to their own selfish interests.”
Regarding the meeting held at Chief Bode Amoo’s residence in Agodi Government Reserved Area, Ibadan, on Monday, Oba Ajibola remarked, “They claim we convened a meeting and endorsed him (Olakulehin). I dissociate myself from that. I’ve made it clear I won’t partake in such illegality. While we acknowledge Baba Olakulehin as the next Olubadan, let us give him time to recover.
“Has anyone seen him since last Friday? Those who attempted to visit him after Friday were unsuccessful. They are coercing him. We should allow him to recuperate.”
Details to follow…
