The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu Adetunji, at the weekend stated that the 3-year-old crisis rocking Ibadan chieftaincy system is over.
Oba Adetunji, who stated this at the sideline of the installation of the new Araba of Ibadanland, Chief Ifalere Odegbemi Odegbola II at his Popoyemoja, Ibadan palace, pointedly said the crisis has gone with the wind and that Ibadan people should rejoice in God.
“One of the definitions of tradition is that whatsoever was good for our forefathers should also be good for us. Every aspect of Yoruba tradition and customs that we champion is preserved and protected. One, chiefs are no longer addressed as monarchs as this has become unlawful”, he said.
Oba Adetunji added, “two, we have stopped indiscriminate wearing of beaded crowns and coronets. Three, high chiefs, senior chiefs, other chiefs and Mogaji who could not go forward because of the previous government interference in the chieftaincy system have been elevated to appropriate titles.
“Four, the titled chiefs have also been posted to different local government traditional councils by Olubadan. Five, no life was lost in the crisis. Six, some people insulted me but I did not revenge.”
The Olubadan stressed that the peace and harmony pervading the Ibadan chieftaincy fold would not have been possible if “not for God, lovers of Ibadan and its good people who insist on non-interference by government in our chieftaincy system.”
Oba Adetunji stated further that he had thought it would take the next 25 years for normalcy to return to the “polluted chieftaincy system” in Ibadan, adding that, ” but I am happy today to report to Nigerians that all we hold sacred is intact and secure as all our people spread across 21 towns, 1,681 villages, 11 local government councils of Oyo state are most grateful for the de-escalation of tension.”
He lauded Governor Seyi Makinde who is now the Aare Jagunmolu of Ibadanland and former governor and Osi Olubadan, High Chief Rasidi Ladoja for the restoration of peace and order adding that generations yet unborn would not forget their labour and love for Ibadanland.
Oba Adetunji said the generality of Ibadan people will be willing to forgive those who contributed one way or the other to the cause of the crisis and that they must not forget the lessons learnt which include patience, forbearance, forgiveness, meekness and the spirit of brotherhood.”
