The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) has issued a strong warning to politicians in Oyo State, particularly those operating in Ibadan, over what it described as growing acts of disrespect toward the revered Olubadan stool.
In a statement released on Monday in Ibadan, the CCII President-General, Ajeniyi Ajewole, expressed concern over what he called reckless utterances and conduct by some political actors. The statement, signed by the council’s Publicity Secretary, Kola Olomide, said recent developments threaten the dignity and sanctity of traditional institutions in Ibadanland.
Ajewole stressed that the Olubadan stool remains sacred to the people and must be treated with utmost respect at all times. He warned that the council would not tolerate any attempt to undermine or politicise the traditional institution.
“The stool is sacred to the people of Ibadanland and must be accorded the highest respect. Any attempt to denigrate it will attract serious consequences,” he said.
The CCII further described the Olubadan as a unifying father figure to both indigenes and residents, regardless of political leanings. It urged politicians to conduct themselves with decorum and restraint, noting that all political actors are, by tradition, subjects of the Olubadan.
According to the council, any form of public attack or disparaging remarks directed at the monarch or the institution will no longer be condoned, even if followed by an apology.
“The palace cannot be reduced to a political tool. It remains a symbol of unity and strength for the people. This is the last time such actions will be tolerated,” the statement added.
The council also condemned the increasing trend of politicians engaging in verbal attacks and exchanging curses in the public space, describing such behaviour as irresponsible and unbecoming.
Reiterating the non-partisan nature of the traditional institution, the CCII maintained that the Olubadan stool has consistently remained neutral and respectful to all political interests in the state.
Ajewole, therefore, called on political actors to prioritise peace and maturity in their engagements, warning that political differences must not degenerate into attacks on cultural values.
“Politics should not be reduced to insults, hostility, or bitterness. Leaders must rise above divisive tendencies and act in the interest of unity and peace,” he said.
The council reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the integrity of the Olubadan institution and urged stakeholders across the state to uphold respect, decorum, and harmony in political activities.
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