The Kabba Traditional Title Chiefs have disclosed that the appointment of Obadofin of Owe community, a second class graded chief by the Obaro of Kabba, Dr Michael Olobayo was in conformity with the laid down traditional procedures.
Oba Olobayo who is the chairman of Okun Traditional Council announced recently the appointment of Chief Jacob Onilu as the Obadofin-elect following the demise of Oba Patrick Owoleke, the last holder of the position
It was gathered that shortly after the announcement, there was a controversy over the appointment where a group called Kabba Club 12, addressed newsmen that the appointment of new Obadofin did not follow due process.
It threatened that if the appointment was not nullified, it could cause a break down of peace and order in the community.
However, the Forum of Kabba Traditional Titled Chiefs, in a press statement debunked the claims of Kabba Club 12, saying the Obaro’s action was in order and could not in anyway be faulted by any body or group of people.
To support its claim, it cited a Supreme Court judgment of Friday, June 27, 2008, delivered by Justice D. Musdapher which recognised the Obaro of Kabba as the only kingmaker to all chieftaincy titles in Kabba Kingdom
According to the traditional chiefs “the selection of traditional title holders in Kabba is both by law and tradition the prerogative of the Obaro of Kabba and by selecting Oba Jacob Onilu as the Obadofin-elect, he has not erred in tradition or in law.”
The statement was signed by Chief Obagunla Omola, chairman and Chief Obakayo Femi Arokoyo, secretary, on behalf of the body in the Okemeta of Owe including some aspirants to the Obadofin stool
The statement insisted that the selection of Onilu to the stool of Obadofin out of the nine contestants was done after satisfying all channels of verifications and consultations and he was adjudged on the most suitable that could enhance the peaceful coexistence of all clans in Kabba.
It added that “it is therefore an anathema for a non holder of traditional title to dabble into the selection of a traditional ruler or titled chief in the ancient community of Kabba
“The claim by Club 12 that the appointment of Onilu may spark off break down of law and order is therefore mischievous and unfounded
“However, in an event of any breakdown of law and order as orchestrated by Club 12, Mr Peter Olumeyan, the leader and his cohorts should be held responsible.”
The statement added that it would continue to place implicit confidence on the Obaro of Kabba as his reign has usheredin the desired peace, tranquility and monumental development to the ancient community.
