High Chief Rasidi Ladoja, the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, has raised doubts about the capacity of the Otun Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, to ascertain the medical suitability of Olubadan designate, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.

In response to Oba Ajibola’s assertion at a press conference in Ibadan that Oba Olakulehin is presently unfit for enthronement, Ladoja questioned the jurisdiction of Oba Ajibola, emphasizing that he lacks medical expertise to make such a determination.

While Oba Ajibola expressed concerns about Oba Olakulehin’s health, Oba Lateef Adebimpe, after visiting him, declared him physically sound and prepared for the throne.

Ladoja clarified, “Both opinions have been voiced, but neither Oba Ajibola nor Oba Adebimpe are medical professionals. We are discussing the health of an individual well beyond the age of 80; his agility cannot be compared to that of a younger person.”

Regarding the upcoming meeting of kingmakers, initially scheduled for Thursday but postponed due to the Eid-fitri holiday, Ladoja assured that all relevant parties have been notified of the change.

He further noted that in the event of absenteeism among the kingmakers, provisions exist for substitutes as outlined in the 1957 Declaration. In response to inquiries about potential absence by the Otun Olubadan, responsible for nominating the next monarch, Ladoja affirmed the protocol for substitution.

Additionally, Ladoja addressed the legal action he initiated against members of the Olubadan in Council, attributing it to alleged threats to his aspirations for kingship. He clarified that the lawsuit was not instigated due to denial of the crown but in response to perceived intimidation.

“If they withdraw their threats, I will retract my legal action,” Ladoja stated. “My involvement in the court case is not about claiming the crown but defending against intimidation.”

In conclusion, Ladoja reaffirmed his commitment to the traditional hierarchy and expressed hope for an amicable resolution to the ongoing deliberations surrounding the Olubadan succession.