The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, on Monday declared that the Ibadan traditional institution would not succumb to blackmail or alter the established procedures for chieftaincy appointments to satisfy any individual.

The monarch made the declaration during the installation of seven Mogajis and three Baales at the Olubadan Palace, Oke-Aremo, Ibadan.

Speaking on behalf of the Olubadan, the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, said all appointments were made strictly in accordance with the customs and traditions governing the Ibadan chieftaincy system.

In an apparent reference to a chieftaincy aspirant allegedly mounting a media campaign over the selection process, Ajibola maintained that the palace would not be influenced by external pressure.

“The Olubadan does not impose Mogajis or Baales on any family or village settlement. The procedures guiding their appointments have been strictly followed in line with Ibadan custom and tradition,” he said.

He explained that, in matters relating to Mogaji appointments, the term “family” refers to the extended family rather than the nuclear family, noting that every recognised branch of a family is entitled to produce a Mogaji.

Using the Olufadejin family compound at Alekuso, Ibadan, as an example, he said the family comprises several branches, including Adeojo, Amzat and Busari, adding that no single branch has an exclusive right to the title.

Ajibola said where more than one qualified candidate contests the position, only one would emerge successful, urging unsuccessful aspirants and their supporters to accept the outcome in the interest of family unity.

He consequently announced Chief Omosanjo Fatai Amzat Adegoke as the new Mogaji of the Olufadejin Compound, Alekuso, and appealed to members of the family to rally round him.

The Olubadan also urged the newly installed Mogajis and Baales to discharge their responsibilities with integrity, fairness and commitment to the development of their respective families and communities.

The installation ceremony was attended by members of the Olubadan-in-Council, including the Otun Olubadan, Oba Eddy Oyewole; Otun Balogun, Oba Kola Adegbola; Osi Olubadan, Oba Abiodun Kola-Daisi; Asipa Olubadan, Oba Hamidu Ajibade; Asipa Balogun, Oba Abiodun Azeez; Ekerin Olubadan, Oba Bayo Akande; and Ekerin Balogun, Oba Mobolaji Adewoyin.