The Association of Traditional Baales in Ibadanland has cautioned political actors against involving traditional rulers in partisan conflicts, stressing the need to preserve the neutrality and dignity of cultural institutions.
In a statement signed by its chairman, Folorunso Durojaye Bamitale Ige, the group expressed concern over what it described as growing attempts to entangle monarchs in political narratives.
It specifically criticised remarks attributed to Adebayo Adelabu, which it said sought to link his political challenges to the office of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.
The association described such claims as “unfortunate and unacceptable,” emphasizing that traditional institutions are meant to promote unity, cultural preservation, and peace, not partisan interests.
Reaffirming its stance, the group noted that political outcomes are determined by public engagement and democratic processes, not the influence of royal figures. It urged politicians across party lines to refrain from using traditional rulers as scapegoats in political rivalries.
The Baales reiterated their commitment to neutrality and peacebuilding, warning that politicising traditional leadership could erode public trust and threaten communal harmony.
Please read the full press statement below:
PRESS RELEASE
ASSOCIATION OF TRADITIONAL BAALES, IBADANLAND UPHOLDS ROYAL INTEGRITY, REJECTS POLITICAL INTERFERENCE
The Association of Traditional Baales in Ibadanland led by Baale Folorunso Durojaye Bamitale Ige JP (Baale Olohunde Ige) wishes to address a matter of growing concern regarding the increasing attempt by some political actors to entangle traditional institutions in partisan politics.
The revered institution of traditional leadership in Ibadanland, and indeed across Nigeria, has long stood as a symbol of unity, cultural preservation, and moral authority. Our role is to foster peace, promote communal harmony, and serve as custodians of our heritage—not to be drawn into the shifting tides of political contests.
It has come to our attention that recent statements attributed to Adebayo Adelabu seek to associate his perceived political challenges with the person and office of His Imperial Majesty, Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja. We find this development both unfortunate and unacceptable.
We state unequivocally that traditional rulers must not be used as instruments or scapegoats in political narratives. The dignity of the throne and the sanctity of our institutions demand a clear separation from partisan disputes. Political fortunes—whether of success or setback—are products of engagement with the people, policies, and democratic processes, not the influence or interference of traditional authorities.
As wisely observed by Epictetus:
“Don’t demand that things happen as you wish, but wish that they happen as they do happen, and you will go on well.”
This timeless counsel underscores the importance of accountability, self-reflection, and acceptance in public life.
We therefore call on all politicians, regardless of affiliation, to desist from dragging traditional rulers into the murky waters of political rivalry. Such actions erode public trust, distort the role of our institutions, and threaten the unity we have worked tirelessly to preserve.
The Association remains committed to neutrality, peacebuilding, and the continued service of our people. We urge all stakeholders to respect the boundaries that safeguard the integrity of both governance and tradition.
Signed:
Baale Folorunso Durojaye Bamitale Ige JP
Chairman, Association of Traditional Baales, Ibadanland
3, May 2026.
