Olubadan to New Chiefs: Your Beads Are at Risk If You Encourage Land Grabbing

​IThe Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, has issued a stern ultimatum to newly installed Mogajis and Baales, warning that their traditional symbols of authority are not immune to removal should they engage in illicit land activities.

​During the installation ceremony held at the Banquet Hall of the Olubadan Palace, Oke Aremo, the monarch made it clear that the bead—the esteemed mark of their chieftaincy—will be withdrawn from any chief found complicit in the rampant land-grabbing incidents currently plaguing the region. Represented by the Ashipa Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Salawudeen Amidu Ajibade, and the Ekerin Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Akeem Mobolaji Adewoyin, the Olubadan emphasized that such illegal land dealings rarely thrive without the direct involvement of traditional rulers. He declared that any chief caught encouraging or supporting these acts would not only face the withdrawal of their bead but also be prosecuted in a court of law.

​Beyond the warning on land grabbing, the Olubadan underscored the heavy responsibility now resting on the shoulders of the 18 newly installed Mogajis and 11 Baales. As the designated Chief Security Officers within their respective domains, they were charged to remain vigilant, proactive, and committed to addressing the insecurity threatening their communities.

​The paramount ruler reminded the chiefs that they serve as his ambassadors and representatives of the Olubadan-in-Council. Consequently, he demanded that they distance themselves from any nefarious activities that could tarnish the integrity of the Olubadan stool or the image of Ibadanland. The event was attended by prominent members of the Olubadan-in-Council, including the Otun Olubadan, Oba (Sir) Eddy Oyewole, and other traditional and religious leaders, as confirmed in a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Olubadan, Chief Ayoade Solomon Olugbemiga.