Oba Lekan Balogun, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, has enforced the suspension of one of his chiefs, Mogaji Wale Oladoja.
According to reliable sources, Oladoja, serving as the Mogaji of the Akinsola family, has been temporarily suspended by the traditional leader due to his alleged involvement in the forceful eviction of several landlords in the Akinyele Local Government Area of Oyo State.
As reported earlier, inhabitants of Alaja Phase One, Alaja Phase Two, Isagunna, and Aponmode communities within the Akinyele Local Government Area of Oyo State protested against what they claimed was a forceful eviction orchestrated by Oladoja. Their concerns led them to the premises of the State House of Assembly, where they lodged their complaints on Thursday.
The aggrieved residents, who have owned properties within the communities for decades, expressed astonishment upon learning that a court injunction had been obtained to expel them from their homes. They alleged that Mogaji Wale Oladoja of the Akinsola family had invaded their homes in an attempt to displace them.
The decision to suspend Oladoja was reached during an impromptu meeting convened by the Olubadan on Friday. Present at the meeting were the Olubadan, members of his advisory council, representatives of Ibadan Mogajis, Chief Asimiyu Ariori, Oladoja, and representatives from the affected communities.
During the meeting, Oladoja defended his actions by stating that he had made multiple efforts to resolve the matter amicably before taking any drastic steps.
Speaking on behalf of the Olubadan, the Ashipa of Ibadanland, Biodun Kola-Daisi, highlighted that Oladoja had disregarded the customary code of conduct expected from both Mogajis and Baales upon their appointments. Kola-Daisi, representing the Olubadan, then announced the suspension of Oladoja.
He conveyed, "Through today's proceedings, several pertinent facts have emerged that point to Mogaji Akinsola's (Oladoja's) deviation from the customary code of conduct mandated for Mogajis and Baales upon their appointments. In this specific instance, the issue had already been brought to the palace's attention. However, was prior notice given to the palace before involving the police? Your actions not only inconvenienced and embarrassed the Olubadan throne and Ibadanland, but also transgressed ethical boundaries. The Council has decided to suspend you from your role as Mogaji. Furthermore, you are required to publicly apologize to those who were adversely affected."
Kola-Daisi continued, "Your actions defied the Olubadan's authority, and you took matters into your own hands by pursuing such a radical course of action. This will serve as a cautionary measure for others who fail to comprehend and respect the responsibilities associated with their positions as either Baale or Mogaji. Your suspension will persist until a resolution to the issue you have created is achieved."