The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State, has cautioned Mogajis, or compound heads, against the arbitrary sale of ancestral lands in Ibadanland. This warning was given during the installation ceremony of five new Mogajis and four Baales at the Olubadan palace on Monday. Ladoja emphasized the importance of preserving ancestral lands for developmental projects.
The newly installed Mogajis include Engineer Adedayo Ajagunna as Mogaji of Ajagunna compound, Alafara Oje Area; Mr Olatayo Akande Adelabu Adeyeri as Mogaji of Oloro compound, Idi-Agbon; Mr Wasiu Olapade Alabi as Mogaji of Areja compound, Ode-Aje; Alhaji Kazeem Alarape of Raji Ojongbodu compound, Agbeni; and Alhaji Adamo Lekan Bello as Mogaji of Asunmo compound. Additionally, four Baales were installed: Mr Gbadamosi Kabiru as Baale of Kehinsi village, Mr Oguntayo Ademola as Baale of Oguntayo village, Mr Sakirudeen Yekini Adegbenjo as Baale of Olode village, and Mr Olalekan Gbenga Ogundipe as Baale of Akintola Ogbun village.
Ladoja, speaking through the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, explained that the traditional title holders were installed to represent him in their respective communities, not to oppress the people. He stressed that their role is to promote the well-being of their domains and maintain the good image of Olubadan and Ibadanland. The traditional ruler advised the newly installed chiefs to shun any actions that could tarnish the reputation of Olubadan and Ibadanland.
The Olubadan reminded the traditional title holders that they are the accredited representatives of Olubadan, and as such, they must conduct themselves in a manner that reflects positively on their position. He emphasized that ancestral lands are meant for developmental projects, not for sale. Ladoja questioned the logic of selling ancestral lands, asking, "If your forefathers had sold the land, what will you inherit?"
The installation ceremony of the new Mogajis and Baales marks an important milestone in the traditional governance structure of Ibadanland. The Olubadan's warning serves as a reminder of the crucial role that traditional title holders play in preserving the cultural heritage and land rights of their communities. The event was attended by various dignitaries and stakeholders from across Ibadanland.
The Mogajis and Baales installed are expected to work closely with the Olubadan to promote peace, stability, and development in their respective domains. They are also expected to uphold the traditions and customs of Ibadanland, while fostering a sense of community and cooperation among the people. The Olubadan's leadership is critical in guiding the traditional title holders in their roles and responsibilities.
The Olubadan's warning against the arbitrary sale of ancestral lands is a significant move to protect the land rights and interests of the people of Ibadanland. The traditional ruler's emphasis on preserving ancestral lands for developmental projects highlights the need for sustainable and responsible land management practices in the region. This move is expected to have a positive impact on the socio-economic development of Ibadanland.
Key points
- Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Ladoja, warns traditional title holders against selling ancestral lands arbitrarily.
- Five new Mogajis and four Baales were installed during the ceremony at the Olubadan palace on Monday.
- Ancestral lands are meant for developmental projects, not for sale, according to Ladoja.
