A traditional leader in Ibadanland, Oloye Olajuwon Enitan Subair-Adelokun, has called on former Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, to publicly apologise over comments allegedly made about the Olubadan institution in a viral video currently circulating online.
Subair-Adelokun, who is the Anlugbua and Mogaji Ile Nla, made the demand in a statement released amid growing reactions to the video, which has continued to stir conversations across political and cultural circles in Oyo State.
The Ibadan chief described the alleged remarks linked to Adebayo Adelabu as disturbing, warning against what he termed the increasing politicisation of the revered stool of the Olubadan of Ibadanland.
According to him, the Olubadan institution represents the cultural identity, unity, and heritage of Ibadanland and must not be dragged into partisan political narratives or public ridicule.
“It is both disturbing and unacceptable that certain politicians and individuals have continued to recklessly drag the revered stool of the Olubadan of Ibadanland into partisan political narratives,” he said.
Subair-Adelokun stressed that the Olubadan remains a father figure to all residents and indigenes of Ibadanland irrespective of political affiliation, insisting that the traditional institution exists above political interests and ambitions.
“The Olubadan is not, and will never be, an instrument in the hands of any political actor. The institution of the Olubadan stands as a sacred symbol of authority, heritage, and unity,” he added.
The traditional leader further urged Adebayo Adelabu to immediately clarify the comments attributed to him in the trending video, stating that failure to offer an unreserved apology could be interpreted as an act of disrespect to both the throne and the people of Ibadanland.
“In light of the disturbing video currently in circulation, I call on Mr. Adebayo Adelabu to, without delay, publicly clarify his statements. Anything short of a clear and unreserved apology will be seen as a willful act of disrespect to the throne and the people of Ibadanland,” the statement noted.
He also advised political actors and their supporters to refrain from making statements capable of undermining traditional institutions, warning that Ibadan sons and daughters would resist any attempt to diminish the dignity of the Olubadan stool.
