RESIGN NOW IF YOU WANT THE CROWN, OBA AJIBOLA WARNS SENATOR ALLI

The Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, has stirred the hornet’s nest following his insistence that Senator Sharafadeen Alli must relinquish his seat in the National Assembly if he intends to continue his ascent to the Olubadan throne.

​Speaking during a press conference covered by Gistlife, the high-ranking kingmaker maintained that the traditional laws of Ibadan do not recognize “part-time” monarchs, asserting that once an individual is gazetted as an Oba, they must completely insulate themselves from partisan politics.

​Oba Ajibola, who has remained vocal about the succession protocols within the Olubadan-in-Council, stated that the sanctity of the stool is at risk when active politicians occupy high-ranking traditional offices. He noted that the transition from a high chief to an Oba is a sacred commitment that demands full-time devotion to the customs and people of Ibadan.

​”You cannot be a Senator and an Oba at the same time. Once it is gazetted that you are an Oba, you must do away with politics,” the Balogun declared. “The laws must be obeyed. If you are not ready to resign your political position, then you should not be looking towards the crown.”

​The Balogun further argued that the dual role creates a conflict of interest, potentially dragging the traditional institution into the murky waters of political warfare. He stressed that the gazetting of a chief as an Oba is a legal seal that transforms their status, making it mandatory for them to vacate any elective office to preserve the neutrality and dignity of the throne.

​This development adds a fresh layer of complexity to the ongoing transition debates in the ancient city. While Senator Sharafadeen Alli, representing Oyo South Senatorial District, remains a key figure in the Olubadan line, the ultimatum from the Balogun serves as a direct challenge to the political class within the council.

​As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official reaction from the Senator’s camp, but the Balogun’s stance has already sparked intense debate across the 11 local government areas of Ibadanland regarding the modernization of tradition and the eligibility of active politicians in the royal hierarchy.