Sunday Igboho Speaks Out On Clash Between Alaafin And Olubadan

According to Ireporter Online, Yoruba nation activist Chief Sunday Adeyemo, widely known as Sunday Igboho, has urged traditional rulers in Yorubaland to set aside personal rivalries and unite in addressing the growing insecurity in the region.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Igboho criticized the ongoing dispute between the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, over the rotational chairmanship of the Oyo State Council of Obas, describing it as “unimpressive” given the historical significance of their positions.

He emphasized that the monarchs should focus on pressing issues, including the activities of bandits, terrorists, and other criminal elements operating in forests across the South West. Igboho called on the rulers to act as agents of unity and economic growth, protecting their people instead of engaging in conflicts over temporary positions.

The activist also appealed for the intervention of other prominent Yoruba leaders, such as the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and the Olugbon of Orile Igbon, Oba Francis Olushola Alao, to help resolve tensions surrounding the council’s permanent chairmanship.

He stated, “Why should our royal fathers dissipate energy on positions when bandits, terrorists, and other criminal elements have taken over our forests in the South West, especially after the recent killings of guards in Old Oyo National Park and other parts of Oyo State? It is critical for traditional rulers, irrespective of hierarchy, to close ranks in protecting Yoruba’s territorial integrity, foster unity, and promote healthy development.”

Igboho concluded that traditional rulers must continue to serve as pillars of cohesiveness, harmony, and economic progress, stressing that disputes over fleeting positions are inappropriate while their subjects, particularly rural farmers, face grave threats.