By; BAYO AKAMO, Ibadan
A Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State and former Chairman of Oluyole Local Government, Alhaji Kehinde Olaosebikan on Sunday asked Ibadan Elders to wade into the prolonged crisis arising from the review of Olubadan Chieftaintancy laws by the state government.
Alhaji who made the call in Ibadan while featuring on a Fresh FM programme tagged crossfire declared that there is the need now for the Ibadan elders to speak out on the issue and find lasting solution to the crisis.
The APC Chieftain tasked a former President of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, ( CCII), Chief Bayo Oyero, Ambassador Saanu.. Chief K. K Olatunji and the incumbent President of CCII, Chief Yemi Soladoye to intervene in the matter to forestall further degeneration of the crisis.
According to Alhaji Olaosebikan, the time has come for the Ibadan elders to do all within their powers to ensure that peace presently reigning in Ibadan ” is not disturbed in any from.”adding that what was required ” is for a dispassionate assessment of the chieftaincy which has added more values and magnificence to the Olubadan of Olubadan and Ibadan city .
Emphasizing that it was unfortunate that such ” is happening in the traditional sector which made him felt bad as indigene of Ibadan.”Alhaji Olaosebikan said ” at this period in time heralding the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, there is need for Elders to come in and make peace between the waring parties.”
The APC Chieftain pointed out that the silent among Ibadan Elders on the crisis would do anyone no good, hence the need to speak out and find lasting solution to the issue, adding that people should not be unduly sentimental about the issue at hand both looking at the economic and political gains that could arise from the present arrangement.
It will be recalled that Oyo State government under the leadership of Governor Abiola Ajimobi reviewed the chieftaintancy title and elevated some Balees and high Chief to the position of Obaship which met with strong opposition from Olubadan resulting into accusation and counter accusation from the government, Olubadan and newly promoted Obas.