The Obaladi-in-Council of Afon Land in Ogun State has urged the State Government to suspend the installation of Baale of Obada, Jimoh Ajani as Olobada of Obada.
This was made in a statement signed by Aro of Afon Land, High Chief Niyi Odeyale which was made available to journalists in Abeokuta.
The statement informed that the sovereign authority over Obada rests with the Obaladi of Afon.
High Chief Odeyale who equally commended the state Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun for his leadership, said any attempt to install an Oba while a court case is pending could undermine judicial processes and disrupt communal harmony.
While providing historical context, the statement referenced Obada’s establishment as a market town on February 28, 1962, under the leadership of Chief Joel Ogungbe and during the reign of Oba Jinadu Ajao Adetona, Orimadegun II, the Obaladi of Afon.
Here’s the full text: PRESS STATEMENT ISSUED BY THE OBALADI-IN-COUNCIL OF AFON LAND ON THE INSTALLATION OF OLOBADA OF OBADA
The Kabiyesi and the Obaladi in-Council see it very expedient to address some issues surrounding the creation and existence of Obada-Afon, and in particular, the recent upgrading of one of the three Baales laying claim to the headship of the town.
On Wednesday, 28th February, 1962, Obada was established as a market town through legal frameworks put in place by the then councillor, representing Afon Ward in the then Egbado-Ketu District Council, Chief Joel Ogungbe during the reign of our respected Oba Jinadu Ajao Adetona, Orimadegun II, the Obaladi of Afon. This decision however, was made under the auspices of the Egbado-Ketu District, with a letter titled; PERMISSION TO ESTABLISH A MARKET with Reference No 245/179, highlighting the lawful foundation upon which Obada was created and the traditional authority that governs it. This background is quite essential as it clarifies the crucial historical facts regarding the rightful prescribed authority over Obada town in the Imeko-Afon Local Government Area.
The Council, nonetheless, commend the decision of the government of Ogun State under the leadership of our amiable Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun to officially upgrade the Baale of Obada to an Oba. Obaladi in-Council respects the ingenuity of the Governor and welcome the new development. However, it is crucial to assert that the rightful sovereign authority over Obada lies with the Obaladi of Afon. Any claims made by other individuals or groups seeking to usurp this authority are not founded in historical fact and should be regarded with caution.
Since the case determining the ownership of the Obada-Afon town is still in court, it is clearly unthinkable that an Oba will be installed, which could be prejudicial to the ongoing case and a flagrant disregard to judicial process.
We implore the government of Ogun State, alongside the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, as well as Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to consider the ramifications of this situation and immediately suspend the installation of Jimoh Ajani Fagbohun as Olobada of Obada on Afon land pending the determination of the ongoing Suit No: AB/819/2023, pending before Honourable Justice O. Ogunfowora of Ogun State High Court sitting at High Court No. 7, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, in order to forestall breakdown of laws and order. We ask for your assistance in ensuring that the traditions and historical facts that underpin the authority of the Obaladi of Afon are respected.
This is not merely a matter of titles, but a profound issue that affects the communal identity and historical legacy of both Afon and Obada. It is our collective duty to uphold these traditions and ensure that there is no breach of the peace or respect for our history.
Signed:
High Chief Niyi Odeyale, Aro of Afon land. For the Obaladi-in-Council.
