THE Otun Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Abimbola Ajibola, has said that the Olubadan-designate, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, is still ill and not physically fit to rule at the moment.
The revered Olubadan stool became vacant on March 14 after the death of Oba Lekan Balogun, who reigned for two years and died at the age of 81.
Oba Ajibola, who addressed newsmen at his Sanyo private residence in Ibadan on Tuesday, claimed that Olakulehin was not healthy and should not be installed as the Olubadan yet.
However, a member of the Olakulehin family, who preferred anonymity because he was not authorised by the family to officially react, countered Oba Ajibola.
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He said, “There is no law that states that Baba cannot become Olubadan. Baba is old, there is no doubt about that, just as many of the kingmakers are also old.
“You were clamouring that he should present himself physically and he did. Some of the kingmakers saw him they took photographs which you newsmen used in your papers. Is Olubadan stool for the Olympics fitness? We know the ages of those who had become Olubadan.
“What the Otun Balogun is saying has no basis. He knows he will be the direct beneficiary if Baba is disqualified. There is no reason to want someone ahead of you disqualified because you want to attain the position. We should all learn to wait for our time. God’s time is the best.”
The next-in-line of succession will nominate the Olubadan-designate at a meeting of the kingmakers, where the choice will be ratified and the name sent to the Oyo State Governor for ratification and approval.
Oba Ajibola is the next in line after Oba Olakulehin on the Balogun line.
Confusion Over Crowning Of New Olubadan Of Ibadanland
