Ibadan Saved Yoruba Monarchs from Emir Title, Says Oba Ladoja
- Ibadan’s historical influence safeguarded the use of “Oba” as the traditional title among Yoruba monarchs, according to Olubadan-designate Oba Rasidi Ladoja
- During a courtesy visit from the Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Alao, Ladoja called for unity and modernisation across Yorubaland
- He also warned that local leaders would now be held accountable for security breaches within their domains
Olubadan-designate, Oba Rasidi Ladoja, has asserted that the historical influence of Ibadan was instrumental in preserving the title of “Oba” among Yoruba monarchs, rather than the alternative title of “Emir.”
He made this declaration on Thursday during a courtesy visit by the Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Alao, and his wife to his Bodija residence in Ibadan.
Source: Twitter
Ibadan’s role in shaping Yoruba traditional leadership
Oba Ladoja emphasised that Ibadan’s contribution to the evolution of traditional leadership in Yorubaland is well documented.
He remarked, “The position of Ibadan on this matter is well documented in history, without the influence of Ibadan, the traditional title of the entire Obas in Yoruba land would have been ‘Emir’.”
He further noted that the city’s historical significance should now be channelled into modernising the remnants of the former Ibadan Empire.
According to him, the process of transformation is already underway, with traditional rulers expected to play pivotal roles.
“We have commenced the process of the modernization of Ibadan land. All the traditional rulers including Baales and Mogajis have critical roles to play in this regard,” he stated.
Security accountability for Baales and Mogajis
Addressing security concerns, Oba Ladoja declared that Baales and Mogajis must reside within their respective domains and would henceforth be held responsible for any breaches occurring in their communities.
“The era of diaspora Mogajis and Baales is over in Ibadan. If there is a breach of security in any community, the Baales and Mogajis will be held accountable,” he warned.
Supremacy dispute: Oba Ladoja blames supporters
Commenting on the ongoing supremacy debate between the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, Oba Ladoja attributed the tension to their followers rather than the monarchs themselves.
“I have always made people realise that neither the Ooni of Ife nor the Alaafin of Oyo promotes disunity but their respective followers,” he said. He criticised the tendency to manipulate historical narratives, noting that such interpretations are often subjective.
“These are the people who are trying to justify history having forgotten the fact that history most of the time can be subjective,” he added. “Alaafin cannot go to Ile-Ife and rule over the people there, vis-à-vis Ooni of Ife. They have their different territories where they are operating.”
Drawing a parallel with colonial history, he remarked, “The kind of history their supporters are referring to is like that of the history of Britain colonizing America. That was in the past. Today, if America sneezes, the entire Britain will catch a cold.”
Call for unity among Yoruba monarchs
In a bid to foster unity among Yoruba traditional rulers, Oba Ladoja appealed to Oba Alao for support, citing his experience and influence.
“On the unity among the Obas in Yoruba land, I am soliciting the support of Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Alao. His wealth of experience will assist in this regard,” he said.
Source: Legit.ng
