Traditional institution stakeholders in Ibadanland have issued a strong warning to politicians, groups and individuals against any action capable of undermining the authority and dignity of the Olubadan stool and the wider Ibadan traditional system.
The warning was jointly sounded by the Mogajis, monarchs, baales, the Ibadan Compound Peace Initiative (ICPI), and prominent sons and daughters of the ancient city, who said Ibadan people would not tolerate disrespect toward their revered institution.
According to the stakeholders, anyone found openly disrespecting the Olubadan or aligning with individuals or groups that ridicule the Ibadan traditional institution should not expect electoral support from Ibadanland in the 2027 general elections.
In a joint statement signed by the President of Ibadan Mogajis, Mogaji Asimiyu Ariori, and the Coordinator of ICPI, Mogaji Dr. Nurudeen Akinade, the leaders emphasised the political weight of Ibadan within Oyo State.
They noted that Ibadanland, made up of 11 local government areas, accounts for more than 60 per cent of the total votes in the state, making it electorally decisive in any statewide contest.
The stakeholders stressed that historical voting patterns have consistently shown that no serious political ambition in Oyo State can succeed without the backing of Ibadan people.
They described the Olubadan institution as not only a cultural symbol but also a unifying force that embodies the history, identity and collective pride of Ibadanland.
According to them, recent developments have raised concerns about attempts to ridicule or undermine traditional authority, prompting the need to speak firmly and publicly.
The statement warned that Ibadan people are politically conscious and closely observe the conduct and alliances of politicians seeking their support.
“Anybody that disrespects or associates with whoever intends to ridicule Ibadanland and our traditional institution should forget 2027,” the stakeholders declared.
They added that the traditional institution is sacred to the people and must be treated with the highest level of respect, regardless of political interests or affiliations.
The leaders said they have been monitoring events and public utterances closely and would not hesitate to mobilise public opinion against anyone perceived to be hostile to Ibadan’s traditional values.
They reaffirmed their collective resolve to protect the dignity of the Olubadan stool and ensure that Ibadan’s cultural heritage is not dragged into political controversies.
Concluding, the stakeholders urged politicians to engage Ibadanland with respect, humility and cultural sensitivity, warning that the city’s electoral power would be used decisively against any form of disrespect to its traditional institutions.
