Kinsmen urge Oyo APC gov candidate to prioritize traditional role over political ambition

A prominent Ibadan-based group has called on Senator Sharafadeen Alli, the 2027 governorship candidate for the All Progressives Congress in Oyo State, to place his newly acquired traditional responsibilities above his political aspirations. The Oke-Aremo Development Forum issued a statement urging Alli to fully embrace his role as Ekerin Balogun of Ibadanland.

The forum congratulated Alli on his impending elevation within the Olubadan traditional hierarchy, describing it as a significant turning point. They emphasized that this prestigious position should naturally elevate him beyond partisan politics, positioning him as a custodian of Ibadanland's rich cultural heritage. The group believes his traditional duties should now command his complete devotion, superseding his gubernatorial ambitions.

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Your royal stool is bigger than Agodi Government House.

Alli's promotion follows the death of Osi Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Isioye-Dada. Upon approval by the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, Alli will move from Ekaarun Balogun to Ekerin Balogun. The forum stressed that the Ekerin Balogun stool carries immense cultural, traditional, and leadership responsibilities, arguing that its prestige and historical significance far outweigh any political office, including the governorship.

"While the occupant of Agodi Government House serves for a limited constitutional tenure, the holder of a revered traditional title occupies a permanent place in the history, culture, and leadership structure of Ibadanland," the forum stated. They added that Alli, coming from a respected family lineage deeply rooted in Ibadanland's traditional institutions, should protect and uphold the dignity of his royal stool, which they declared is "bigger than Agodi Government House."

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While the occupant of Agodi Government House serves for a limited constitutional tenure, the holder of a revered traditional title occupies a permanent place in the history, culture, and leadership structure of Ibadanland.