Olubadan suspends two Mogajis, strips them of traditional beads over misconduct

From Taiwo Oluwadare, Ibadan

His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Dr) Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin (Ige Olakulehin I), the Olubadan of Ibadanland, has ordered the suspension of two Mogajis—Kamorudeen Kolawole of the Kukula family in Oke-Ofa Baba Isale (Ibadan North East LGA) and Samsudeen Bello of the Ekerin Ajengbe family in Isale Osi (Ibadan South West LGA). The monarch also directed that their traditional beads be removed with immediate effect.

The decision was announced on Thursday during a meeting of the Olubadan Land Matters Committee held at the Old Olubadan Palace, Oja Oba, Ibadan.

Speaking on behalf of the Olubadan, the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Senator Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, said the suspension would remain in place indefinitely until the affected Mogajis take corrective action.

“Your suspension is indefinite until you retrace your steps and do the needful,” the Olubadan declared.

He condemned the actions of the suspended Mogajis, citing allegations including land grabbing, trespassing, forceful acquisition of land, and the oppression of family members and residents in their domains.

The Olubadan further ordered that the suspended individuals cease to parade themselves as titleholders of the Olubadan traditional institution. He also called on law enforcement agencies to apprehend any of them who defy the sanctions.

Expressing his displeasure at the disregard shown by some Mogajis and Baales who failed to honor invitations from the Land Matters Committee, the Olubadan warned that such insubordination could result in the loss of their titles.

Present at the meeting were top-ranking chiefs including Oba Abiodun Kola Daisi (Ashipa Olubadan of Ibadanland), Oba Dauda Abiodun Azees (Ashipa Balogun of Ibadanland), Oba Salaudeen Hamidu Ajibade (Ekerin Olubadan), Chief Isiaka Akinpelu (Special Adviser to the Olubadan on Chieftaincy Matters), President of the Association of Mogajis, Mogaji Ariori of the Olorisa family, Mogaji Adeleke Lukman (Committee Secretary), and Mogaji Abdul Rasaq Akinola (Reporting Officer), among others.