Former Governor of Oyo State, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, has thrown his weight behind the recently passed bill establishing rotational chairmanship of the Oyo State Council of Obas among the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Alaafin of Oyo, and Soun of Ogbomoso.

Speaking to journalists at his Ondo Street residence in Ibadan on Friday after the Eid Kabir festival prayers, Ladoja described the rotational arrangement as "the best" solution for the traditional council's leadership.

Historical Context and Democratic Principles

The Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland dismissed critics of the new arrangement, stating that those opposing the bill "are ignorant of history." He emphasized that the rotational chairmanship among the three prominent traditional rulers is a welcome development that reflects democratic principles.

"Those criticising rotational chairmanship between Alaafin, Olubadan and Soun should be concerned about what will make life of our people better, not a needless agitation," Ladoja remarked.

He further explained the demographic significance of Ibadan in the state's political landscape: "There is no town that can dominate Ibadan, democracy is a game of numbers, and Ibadan has a pyramid of majority."

Ibadan's Numerical Advantage

Ladoja highlighted that Ibadan comprises 11 local governments, giving it substantial numerical advantage over other zones in the state. He noted that this demographic reality would naturally favor Ibadan in any voting scenario.

"Ibadan has the majority in the House of Assembly. If we are to vote for who becomes the permanent Chairman of the Council of Obas and Chiefs, we will surely win. Ibadan is the home of all. God has elevated Ibadan naturally," the former governor stated.

The Oyo State House of Assembly recently passed the bill establishing the rotational chairmanship system, which has now been signed into law. The arrangement will see the leadership of the Council of Obas rotate among the Olubadan of Ibadanland, the Alaafin of Oyo, and the Soun of Ogbomoso.

Despite some opposition to the new arrangement, Ladoja's endorsement adds significant weight to the legitimacy of the law, given his status as both a former governor and a high-ranking traditional chief in Ibadanland.

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