The Council of Baales in Orile-Imo,Obafemi-Owode local government area of Ogun State, has issued a firm rejection of the recent installation of Chief Reuben Oluwanbe Sogaolu as the Olu of Orile-Imo, citing procedural breaches and lack of community involvement.
The decision was announced in a communique following a crucial four-hour meeting held on Monday.
The communique expressed shock and dismay at the news of Sogaolu’s installation by the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Michael Adedotun Gbadebo, without the involvement of essential community stakeholders.
It emphasised that the Imo Traditional Council, which plays a pivotal role in the selection process, was not consulted, leading to widespread belief that Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun may have been misinformed about the legitimacy of the recommendation.
“The governor, known for his respect for the laws of our land, cannot knowingly support a blatant disregard for the rule of law,” the communique stated, highlighting the community’s confidence in the governor’s commitment to legal and traditional norms.
The Council of Baales declared that Sogaolu’s appointment is unacceptable, citing a complete breach of the established selection procedures.
The communique clarified that the Alake lacks the authority to unilaterally appoint the Olu of Orile-Imo, as his role is limited to acting on recommendations from the Imo Traditional Council.
The communique stated that the stance was reinforced by a letter from the Alake dated August 30, 2023, in which he instructed the Oluwo of Imo, Chief Olorunsogo Ogunwemimo Ogunbona, to collaborate with other stakeholders to recommend a suitable candidate.
Despite this directive, the Alake proceeded independently, disregarding his own guidelines.
The communique further criticized Alake’s recommendation, noting it contradicted his call for a candidate “most appropriate in all ramifications.”
The council argued that Sogaolu, who lacks significant ties to the community beyond his lineage, does not meet this criterion.
They contended that an Oba should be someone who is well-known, resides in the town, and has actively contributed to its development.
In a message to Governor Abiodun and the general public, the Council of Baales warned that the Alake’s actions could incite unrest in the otherwise peaceful Orile-Imo.
They stressed the community’s need for a ruler who genuinely represents and is invested in the town.
“As law-abiding citizens, we will not take the law into our own hands but will explore all legitimate avenues to seek justice and ensure the people’s will prevails,” the communique asserted, indicating a readiness to pursue legal redress.
The Council concluded by labeling the Alake’s recommendation as illegal, unlawful, and unconstitutional, resolving to vehemently reject Sogaolu’s nomination and coronation.
The communique was signed by several prominent Baales, including Chief Durodola Fatai, Kola Jimoh, Ogunjimi Olusoji, and others.
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