Youth kick against installation of 32 monarchs (Obas) in Ibadan
In order to avert future crisis on kingship in Ibadan, the largest city in west Africa, Some youths have kicked against the plan by the Oyo State government to install 32 beaded monarchs in Ibadan, the state capital.
This followed the recommendation at the weekend, by a panel headed by Justice Akintunde Boade to review the traditional institution.
The youths, under the Umbrella of Integrity Youths of Ibadanland, said installing new monarchs would cause generational damage and the cherished unity among Ibadan sons and daughters.
President, of the association, Ojekunle Wasiu, said” if the system is adopted, it would destroy the orderly, peaceful and self- reforming traditional system, which had endeared the city to other states in the southwest.
The panel had recommended that new monarchs be installed with the Olubadan of Ibadan, Saliu Adetunji becoming the paramount ruler of the ancient city.
The monarch expressed disappointment over the recommendations, insisting that the status quo must be maintained.
It was learnt that many of the high chiefs in the city have given their support, as Governor Abiola Ajimobi promised to implement the recommendation next month.
According to the youth leader: “This recommendation would be highly counter-productive. We are urging the state government to have a rethink on the matter to forestall future conflict.
“The government should do the needful by conducting local council poll, which is the only way that people at the grassroots can benefit from development, rather than the installation of more kings.”
The youths cautioned the government not to compare the Ibadan chieftaincy system with other towns or cities in Yorubaland.
