The Iyalode of Ibadanland, High Chief Theresa Oladuntan Oyekanmi, has endorsed the decision of her fellow kingmakers to approve High Chief Sen. Lekan Balogun as the next Olubadan of Ibadan.
The Iyalode is the only female member of the Olubadan-in-Council and is the head of women in the large city.
She also heads the Iyalode-in-Council as the women wing of the traditional leadership system in Ibadan.
Her endorsement was conveyed in a condolence letter to the Olubadan-in-Council over the demise of the immediate past monarch Oba Saliu Adetunji. She congratulated the kingmakers on their choice of Adetunji’s successor.
The letter read in part: “May I seize this opportunity to congratulate my fellow members of the Olubadan-in-Council for the seamless nomination of the next Olubadan, Dr. Sen. Lekan Balogun in accordance with norms and traditions of Ibadanland”.
High Chief Oyekanmi said she wholeheartedly aligned with the resolution of her colleagues in the council, pointing out that the decision complied with Ibadan culture and tradition.
According to her, “Dr. Sen. Lekan Balogun is the rightful successor to the throne of Olubadan and the proclamation made by my brothers at the Olubadan-in-Council was well placed and had my support and blessing.
“Ibadan women are for observance of culture and tradition of our land and the choice of Dr. Sen. Balogun is our choice and have our blessings. As the head of the women wing, I, on behalf of the women folk both at home and in the diaspora assure the Olubadan designate of our unwavering support and cooperation,” Iyalode wrote.
While calling on all to support the Olubadan-elect, High Chief Oyekanmi said: “What Ibadan needs now is for all hands to be on deck for a smooth inauguration of the new Olubadan and more importantly, prayer for a peaceful reign when the new king takes full charge”.
