Ladoja and the Politics of the Olubadan Stool: A Respectful but Necessary Critique By Adesokan Aderibigbe Sanusi from Ona Ara Local Government
There is a fundamental difference between supporting good governance and openly endorsing a politician. This distinction becomes particularly important when the person speaking is not merely an ordinary citizen, but, in this case the Olubadan of Ibadanland.
Oba Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja has every right, as a Nigerian citizen, to hold political opinions. He has been a politician for decades, served as senator and he was also a former Governor of Oyo State. His political identity is therefore well known. But the moment he ascended the throne of Olubadan, his role acquired a different character. He ceased to be the political representative of one constituency and became, symbolically and institutionally, the father of a people with diverse political affiliations. But, there are ample evidences confirming that the incumbent Olubadan is yet to drop the toga of a politician. That is where my concern begins. The Olubadan is sitting on the throne whose history spans many years ago. He’s expected to exemplifies behaviors and attitudes that aligns with the throne. It is therefore sardonic that Kabiesi Olubadan of Ibadanland is presently tying the corn cob on his waist thereby inviting mockeries from far and near. What do you say when a whole Olubadan is publicly endorsing another person for the exalted position of the presidency when infact an Ibadan indigine that is also the incumbent Governor of the state is on the ballot. What happens to Ibadan -first philosophy? Who else ought to be at the forefront of championing an Ibadan man becoming the President of the most populous black nation if not the Olubadan himself? Well, since yesterday, torrent of criticisms has continued to trail the disappointing conduct of our Kabiesi to the extent some are already insinuating he’s the contractor of the road project that was flagged off. While it is not bad for Rasidi Ladoja to get contracts from government, but, can his integrity be maintained after soiling his hands into receiving contracts from those he ought to be advising because in politics it is believed that “he who pays the Piper dictates the tunes” . I doubt if his political opinions could be taken seriously.
The issue is not that Ladoja praised Tinubu. I do not think there is anything inherently wrong with Oba Ladoja acknowledging what he considers to be good work by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.If the Federal Government approves a road project that will benefit Ibadan people, the Olubadan should be able to appreciate the government for it.
He also argued that Tinubu should not be viewed merely as an APC president because he is president of Nigeria.That explanation is understandable.
But the problem begins when appreciation crosses into political endorsement.
Saying “Thank you, Mr President, for approving this project” is institutional engagement. Saying that a sitting President “deserves to be president for a long, long time” moves much closer to electoral advocacy.
I have no problem with Oba Ladoja appreciating President Tinubu or
acknowledging the achievements of his administration.But, I have a problem with a sitting paramount traditional ruler openly telling the public that a serving President deserves a prolonged stay in office. A traditional ruler should be able to commend a President’s performance without becoming an advocate for his continued political tenure. Ladoja the politician can endorse Tinubu. Ladoja the Olubadan should be much more restrained.
The crown has given him something that political office could never give him. He now have the opportunity to become a father to everyone, rather than a leader of one political camp. He should protect that distinction.
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