The traditional ruler of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu Adetunji, yesterday broke the silence over claims by some members of the Olubadan-in-Council that they were being marginalised in the affairs of the palace.
The Monarch through his Director of Media and Public Affairs, Mr Adeola Oloko said denied claims by the Chiefs saying all affairs in the Palace are not hidden to the Chiefs even though they are meant to serve as advisory body to the throne.
While replying the Otun Olubadan, High Chief Lekan Balogun and Balogun of Ibadanland, High Chief Owolabi Olakulehin, the Olubadan said contrary to the wrong impression given by the two high chiefs, he is not an absolute monarch and as such he is not authoritarian in any way that they were not in the dark concerning the appointment and installation of new chiefs.
According to the Monarch, due procedure was followed in the appointment of Chief Mrs Iswat Amerigun and Chief Layiwola Olakojo as Iyaloja and Mayegun of Ibadanland respectively,
Olubadan speaking through his media aid said “how else do you carry your lieutenants along other than following established procedure for appointment of chiefs by tabling the matter and calling for dispassionate discussions in the council”
Oba Adetunji maintained that the High Chiefs were duly carried along before and during the chieftaincy installation ceremonies. He stated that the minutes of the meetings showed that both High Chief Lekan Balogun and Olakulehin were quite aware ahead of the ceremonies.
