FOLLOWING the recent demise of the former occupants of Balogun and Otun Olubadan stools, High Chief Sulaiman Omiyale and Omowale Kuye respectively, the vacant stools were yesterday filled by their successors-in-line, Senator Lekan Balogun and Senator Rashidi Ladoja.

Seven other High Chiefs also got elevated at a function conducted by the Olubadan himself, assisted by some palace chiefs.  This is contrary to an earlier directive by the state government that the chiefs must present a certificate of medical fitness.

They include High Chief Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin (Osi Balogun to Otun Balogun); High Chief (Senator) Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja (Ashipa Olubadan to Osi Olubadan); High Chief Dr. Olufemi Olaifa (Ashipa Balogun to Osi Balogun); High Chief Sir Eddy Oduoye Oyewole (Ekerin Olubadan to Ashipa Olubadan). Others include High Chief Tajudeen Abimbola Ajibola (from Ekerin Balogun to Ashipa Balogun); High Chief Biodun Kola Daisi (from Ekarun Olubadan to Ekerin Olubadan); High Chief Solomon O. Adabale (from Ekarun Balogun to Ekerin Balogun)‎.

According to a letter from the government signed by the Director of Chieftaincy Matters in the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Mr. Z. O Jayeola, which was addressed to the Head of the Ibadan South East Local Government administration, on Thursday, December 31, 2015, the High Chiefs were directed “to submit a medical report certifying them fit for the positions in line with extant chieftaincy laws.”

The statement read that “In line with Section 14 (2) Cap 28 Laws of Oyo State of Nigeria 2000, our ministry has commenced necessary steps towards the executive governor’s approval of the filling of the vacant stools of Balogun and Otun Olubadan of Ibadan land and seven others.