Mr. Adeleke,
With due respect, freedom of speech in the 1999 Constitution is not absolute, and it certainly does not extend to the desecration of revered institutions that hold our people together.
The Olubadan of Ibadanland is not a partisan politician. The Olubadan stool is the apex of a 700+ year traditional institution built on impartiality, consensus, and fatherhood to all Ibadan sons and daughters, regardless of party, religion, or status. Our kingship system was deliberately structured so that the Olubadan reigns above politics. That is why, during state and federal events, the Olubadan is accorded the seat of the father of all — including governors, ministers, and presidents.
When you accuse the Olubadan, Oba Rasheed Ladoja, of “partisanship” and “endorsing APC/Tinubu” based on remarks made at a public project flag-off, you are doing 2 things:
1. Misreading the role of a monarch: Royal fathers pray for, bless, and speak to whoever is in government. A comment wishing a president well for the sake of continuity of projects is not a party card. It is the duty of a father to encourage governance that benefits his people.
2. Ignoring protocol and decorum: Ibadan tradition demands that even in disagreement, we approach the palace through proper channels. Public articles laced with accusations against the throne, followed by dismissal of palace functionaries as “manufactured outrage”, is not criticism. It is affront.
The Mogajis of Ibadan did not threaten you for holding an opinion. They responded because your tone and framing crossed from commentary into denigration of an institution that predates the Nigerian Constitution you quoted. In Ibadan, we say: “A gba ni laa ba so, a ki i ba oba ja” — we advise, we do not fight the king.
If you have genuine concerns about the Ibadan–Ijebu-Ode road event or protocol, the right place is the Palace, the Council of Mogajis, or through the Governor’s office. Not a newspaper article that reduces the Olubadan to a party chieftain.
We all value free speech. But free speech also comes with responsibility, especially when it concerns institutions that guarantee our unity. The Olubadan belongs to all of us. Let us debate politics, but let us not drag the throne into it.
Ki Olubadan pe lori apere, ki Ibadan o si ma tesiwaju.
Signed,
[Surv. Dr. Koleoso Abiodun Alabi Reuben, mogaji ilori Koleoso
Oritamerin oja’ba Ibadan]
