Olubadan completed palace but couldn’t live there — Ajiroba of Ibadan

Ajiroba of Ibadanland, Prof Soji Adejumo, tells ABDULLATEEF FOWEWE how the late Olubadan, Oba Lekan Balogun, crowned several kings in Ibadan and why he elevated them

What is your relationship with the late king?

I am Soji Adejumo, a professor at the University of Ibadan and a politician. Previously, I served as the Chairman of the Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board. However, I am Ajiroba of Ibadanland.

Who was the deceased king and what would his reign be remembered for?

Oba Lekan Balogun was a respected figure in academia and politics, known for being a philosopher-king, and politician. His passing is a great loss, as he brought a new intellectual perspective to the throne of Olubadan. It was disappointing to hear of his death, as the history of the Ibadan monarchy has not always highlighted the importance of the land. In comparison, other regions like Ijebu land are often more prominently represented at national events. The vast number of villages in Ibadan, particularly in the Ido Local Government Area, showcases its significance compared to other areas like Ogun State.

We believed that Ibadanland was not being given the respect and honour that the Olubadan throne deserved. The late Oba Lekan Balogun understood the imperial status of the throne, unlike the previous Olubadan. This led to the elevation of 10 high chiefs to royal majesties and 34 ancient Baales to royal highnesses, showcasing the empire status of Ibadanland. Oba Balogun successfully enhanced and beautified the monarchy. Additionally, Oba Balogun was known for his quick response to issues such as kidnapping and national matters. It should be noted that during his reign, a new palace for the Olubadan was completed, adding to his achievements. It is unfortunate that he didn’t live in the palace till he passed away.

Did the late monarch initiate the construction of the palace?

No, he did not. The construction had been ongoing for almost 20 years without completion. It was under the leadership of Chief Bode Amao and the former governor Rashidi Ladoja about 15 years ago that the current site was secured and work began. The late governor Abiola Ajumobi also contributed significantly, but Governor Seyi Makinde ultimately oversaw its completion during Oba Balogun’s reign. This achievement is a significant milestone for him.

Can you list some of Oba Balogun’s achievements in the area of cultural development?

I didn’t see any traditional practices being compromised during his rule, as Ibadan has always valued its culture. His leadership brought beauty and peace to the community, with a noticeable decrease in violence such as disturbances caused by masqueraders. During his tenure, there was a sense of calm and tranquillity. Oba Balogun made sure that the cultural festivals were handled with dignity and decorum, and that they operated according to the rule of law.

What was the Olubadan’s relationship with the state governor?

There were no political conflicts between him and Seyi Makinde. In actuality, the governor was like a son to him. I am not aware of any disagreements between them.

How long have you known him?

I first encountered Oba Balogun in 1987. He had a great sense of humour and could lighten any situation with humour. He didn’t hold grudges, and if you upset him, he would react, but the next day he would be the one to reach out and suggest putting the incident in the past. His forgiving nature and generosity were remarkable. I met him when I was planning to start a farm in Aganfu, next to his land. During our conversation, which initially focused on farming, we delved into various topics, such as politics and development. I observed that he had progressive views in his village. We used to have conversations in those days for about five hours. We then went into politics together and that was how we just started relating together and it’s interesting.

As the Ajiroba of Ibadanland, can you put us through the process of choosing the next Olubadan?

The Olubadan-in-council is made up of the kingmakers, who will meet and decide the next Oba. Ibadan has the best republican constitution in the world in terms of electing the monarch; the throne is rotated, from the civil line and military line, the Olubadan that just departed came from the civil line, so the next line is the military line. The military line is the Balogun lineage, so the kingmakers will meet just to formally select the new monarch. The departed Olubadan was the Otún and now it is the Balogun line that will take over; so, it is now the Balogun lineage’s turn to produce the Olubadan.

However, they won’t do anything until the funeral rites for the late Olubadan have been completed; he was buried on Friday and then the next Friday will be for the eight-day prayers. After that, the kingmakers will formally meet and then send their recommendation to the governor, who will announce the date for the coronation. Ibadan is so simple that there will not be any competition in deciding their Oba, and it’s the best selective system in the world.

What kind of legacy did the late Olubadan leave behind?

He modernised the monarchy and made Ibadan truly imperial and gave it the honour it deserved. There are now many monarchs; Ibadan now has 42 kings, 3,000 Baales, and 600 Mogajis; is truly an imperial one, and that is his landmark legacy.

Are there specific mourning rituals to be observed after the king’s demise?

There is nothing like that; Ibadan’s not like Ile-Ife. No, there’s no ritual. It’s the next Oba that’ll go into seclusion for the coronation rites for about seven days and then the coronation will follow. So, the Olubadan throne is straightforward, and not polluted by anything. However, Oba Balogun was buried according to Islamic rites; if he was a Christian, he would have been buried according to Christian rites.

Are there any specific challenges or conflicts that may occur during the transition period?

No challenges are coming because there is nothing that can cause it.

Is there any role for the community to play?

Yes, the community will be invited to the coronation and that is their contribution.

Can you offer any insights into the late king’s personal life and character?

He was a peaceful man who enjoyed socialising but was not a frequent partygoer. He was an intellectual and wrote several books; he had a thoughtful and socialist personality.

How do you think the passing of the late king will impact the overall governance and representation of the community?

He did a great deal for Ibadan and was known for keeping his doors open to all. He did not require appointments to see him and was accessible to everyone, including children, students, and even visitors from foreign countries. He made himself available for cultural activities and excursions to his palace. That was his lifestyle; he didn’t allow the title to intoxicate him.

Are there any planned ceremonies or rituals to immortalise the memory of the late king?

No, there are no specific rituals planned. The late king was already buried, and the only upcoming event is the eight-day Fidau prayer scheduled for Friday. Perhaps in the future, his children may decide to organise something to honour his memory. It’s important to note that Ibadan is a place of peace, and there are no ritualistic practices associated with such events. Everything has been conducted according to the customary procedures, and soon a new Olubadan will be appointed and crowned, continuing the cycle of life.

Are there any anticipated changes to some of the cultural practices following the passing of the king?

There is none at all. Each individual can speak for themselves. The new Olubadan will assume his role and responsibilities, bringing his perspective to the position. It is our hope and prayer that his reign will be peaceful and prosperous. We will support him wholeheartedly to ensure that his tenure is successful; maintaining peace and happiness in Ibadanland is our hallmark.

Regarding your role as the Ajiroba to the late Olubadan, is the position a permanent one for all Olubadans?

Yes, indeed. The title of Ajiroba was conferred on me by the late Olubadan, and it is a permanent chieftaincy position.

Is the chieftaincy title you hold a hereditary one?

No, it is not a hereditary chieftaincy title; rather, it is an honour bestowed upon me by Oba Balogun.

Ibadan is known for crowning elderly people as the Olubadan. Is there a possibility of passing on the position to a younger person?

Unfortunately, that is not possible. The process of ascending to the Olubadan throne is a lengthy one, taking approximately 34 years or more to complete. It begins with the Mogaji title; then it progresses to Jagun and other positions before becoming the Olubadan. With over 600 Mogajis in line, when a vacancy for Jagun arises, the most senior Mogaji is promoted. This means that individuals can spend over 15 or more years in the Mogaji lineage before progressing further. Meanwhile, some Mogajis are already in their 50s, so by the time they reach the Jagun position, they will be in their 60s. By the time they ascend the Olubadan throne, they will be in their 90s. This unique pattern is specific to Ibadan and is deeply entrenched in its tradition. However, former governor Ajumobi attempted to modify this pattern, but his efforts were met with resistance; so the current system is accepted as the norm.

Moreover, a father can’t progress through all the stages and then nominate his son to become the Olubadan when it is his turn. This scenario cannot occur in Ibadanland. If a designated successor declines the position, which is rare, the next person in line will assume the role. For instance, if the Otun is supposed to become the Olubadan but declines, the Osi will be promoted to Otun, and the former Otun will retire. This ensures that those next in line are not deprived of their opportunities.

What are your aspirations for the future of the chieftaincy system under the new leadership?

We hope to have a progressive and forward-thinking Olubadan. We pray for the next Olubadan’s success and pledge our unwavering support, as Ibadan is renowned for supporting its Obas. We hold our Oba in high regard and will stand by him. May God grant him a long life, good health, and a lengthy reign.

What message do you have for the late Olubadan’s family?

I extend my condolence to them; it is a testament to God’s favour to have one of their own ascend the Olubadan throne. It was undoubtedly a challenging journey, and I pray that God continues to favour and bless them. They are fortunate as many have held the titles of Otun Olubadan and Balogun but did not ascend to the Olubadan throne. God has indeed been gracious to them.

What will happen to the family now? Will they be required to leave the palace?

No, the palace is their residence, and they will continue to live there. In Ibadan tradition, the personal residence of the Olubadan becomes the palace when he ascends the throne. For the first time in Ibadan’s history, there will now be a permanent palace for the Olubadan. Consequently, when an Olubadan passes away, the family will vacate the palace.