By Peter Omopo
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has announced a major reform in the traditional chieftaincy system, declaring that entry into the Olubadan line will no longer be influenced by financial inducement or personal connections.
The monarch made the declaration at the Olubadan Palace in Oke-Aremo, Ibadan, during the installation of Chief Oladiran Alabi Yeronbi as the new Jagun Olubadan.
Speaking through the Balogun of Ibadanland, Tajudeen Ajibola, Oba Ladoja said the palace has adopted a merit-based system requiring aspiring Mogajis to demonstrate verifiable contributions to family and community development before being considered for entry into the chieftaincy line.
He explained that the reform, backed by the Olubadan Advisory Council, is aimed at promoting service, integrity and fairness in the traditional institution, replacing practices driven by monetary influence.
According to him, three screening committees have been constituted to assess applications, ensuring that only candidates with proven grassroots impact are selected.
Oba Ladoja noted that Chief Alabi emerged the most qualified candidate among 102 applicants, emphasizing that the decision was based strictly on merit.
He urged other contenders not to be discouraged, acknowledging their contributions while noting that only one position was available.
In his acceptance remarks, Chief Oladiran Alabi pledged to strengthen youth empowerment and community development initiatives, stating that his previous efforts in education, training and entrepreneurship support would be expanded.
He also endorsed the monarch’s stance against land grabbing, describing the practice as unnecessary and harmful, while calling for stronger community-based approaches to security.
Alabi added that improving local safety begins at the grassroots, stressing that sustainable security can only be achieved when communities take active responsibility for maintaining order.
