Barrister Michael Lana, a prominent lawyer, politician, and Ibadan prince, has advised the Olubadan Advisory Council to unite and support Senator Rasheed Ladoja as the rightful leader to recommend the new Olubadan to the Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde.
Lana also emphasised the importance of following legal procedures for the selection of the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland.
He made this known during a radio show on Fresh 105.9fm on Sunday, where he stressed that Senator Ladoja should be allowed to play his traditional role in the selection process. Lana urged all stakeholders to prioritise peace and unity to ensure a smooth transition.
Barrister Lana said: “All laws and guidelines relating to how the new Olubadan will emerge must be obeyed and followed. Senator Rasheed Ladoja is the high chief who must be allowed to preside over the Olubadan in the Council that will authenticate the decision on the new Olubadan. That, they said they held a meeting last week appointing High Chief Eddy Oyewole is not going to stand when it gets to court.
“I know there is a rift and I am using this opportunity to call on all well-meaning sons and daughters of Ibadanland to prevail on our fathers to allow peace to reign. I am personally begging them to make peace with one another so that the new Olubadan can emerge.
“Senator Ladoja is the rightful person to lead and recommend who the new Olubadan will be to the governor. If this is not done, I will be one of those who will advise Governor Seyi Makinde not to sign if Baba Ladoja is not allowed to play his legal and traditional role. This is not politics. I am talking about what the law of the land says”.
The current situation remains uncertain as the Olubadan-designate, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, has yet to make a public appearance. The traditional council has until April 5, 2024, to finalize the selection process in accordance with the law.