The traders, artisans, market men and women in Oyo state have joined the state government, Olubadan-in-council, Mogajis, Ibadan Indigenes and good people of the state to welcome and congratulate the new Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun who will ascend the throne on Friday as 42nd Olubadan of Ibadan.
In a release issued by the Coalition of Traders, Artisans, Market Men and Women in Oyo State on Thursday, the coalition described Oba Lekan Balogun as a well experienced, intelligent and widely connected monarch.
The letter reads, “We believe Oba Lekan Balogun will use his wealth of experience, intelligence and broad connections to transform Ibadanland and support the state government in making Oyo State great among others.
“We however wish to advise the new monarch to watch carefully those who will be romancing the throne for personal and selfish reasons, especially the sycophants, idlers whose stock in trade is using obsequious to penetrate, portraying themselves as enemies of Ibadanland, therefore Kabiyesi keep them at arms length.”
The coalition also pleaded with heads and representatives of all markets in Ibadan who have received the Ankara (Asoebi) shared for the coronation to arrive at the agreed venue as early as possible for short meeting ahead of the ceremony.
Reacting to the release, the President of Market Men and Women in Oyo State, Alhaji S. A. Jimoh said, “the release issued by the Coalition is the collective decision of all the units under the coalition’s umbrella.
“Due to the security and protocol arrangements, only the heads and leaders of all markets in Ibadan are expected to be at the venue to prevent avoidable harassment and casualty; while others should celebrate with the new Olubadan in their various markets by reducing selling price of commodities as a mark of respect for the Olubadan and Ibadanland,” Babaloja-General added.
