An elderly Nigerian man has triggered widespread online debate following the leadership controversy rocking the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs, after the Alaafin of Oyo reportedly rejected a rotational chairmanship arrangement.
The reaction comes shortly after the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja (Arusa I), was inaugurated as chairman of the council.
Olubadan Inaugurated as Council Chairman
On Thursday, Governor Seyi Makinde officially inaugurated the Olubadan as the new chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs.
Reports indicated that the position was structured to be rotational among three major traditional rulers in the state.
Alaafin’s Palace Distances Monarch From Rotation
However, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba (Engr.) Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, through his palace, reportedly rejected the rotational arrangement, clarifying that the monarch neither endorsed the decision nor participated in consultations leading to it.
Man Recalls Historical Origins of Rotation
Reacting to the development, an elderly man identified as Ahmeed Sarumi took to Facebook to share what he described as the historical background behind the rotational chairmanship system.
According to Sarumi, during the era of the old Oyo State, the Ooni of Ife served as the permanent chairman of the council.
He claimed that it was a former Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, who encouraged agitation for a rotational arrangement at the time.
“Life Is Funny” — His Words
Sarumi wrote in part:
“Life is funny. The gospel truth is that in the old Oyo State, the Ooni of Ife was the permanent chairman. It was Alaafin Adeyemi who instigated the then Olubadan to push for rotational chairmanship. I remember reading it in TELL magazine.”
He further alleged that the late Ooni Okunade Sijuwade boycotted the council until the creation of Osun State, adding that the rotational system emerged from the political tensions of that era.
“How can any Alaafin now demand what his predecessor fought against? Agreement is agreement. Always fear karma,” he added.
Debate Continues
Sarumi’s post has since sparked intense discussions online, with many debating tradition, historical precedent, and political consistency among Yoruba monarchs.
As reactions continue to pour in, the leadership structure of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs remains a hot topic across social media platforms.
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