The Council of Baales in Orile-Imo has rejected the recent installation of Chief Reuben Sogaolu as the Olu of Orile-Imo, citing significant procedural breaches and a lack of community involvement.
The decision, announced in a communiqué following a meeting held on Monday, stressed the discontent among the Imo Traditional Council, youth groups, market women, and religious leaders.
It stated that the Imo Traditional Council, which plays a vital role in the selection process, was not consulted and expressed shock at the news of Sogaolu’s installation by the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo.
DAILY POST reports that Governor Dapo Abiodun presented the staff of office to the new Olu of Orile Imo in Obafemi, Owode Local Government Area of the state on Friday, July 26.
The council, however, stressed the community’s confidence in the governor’s commitment to legal and traditional norms, saying he might 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 communiqué stated, highlighting the community’s confidence in the governor’s commitment to legal and traditional norms.
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 well-known who 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 otherwise peaceful Orile-Imo, adding that the community needs a ruler who genuinely represents and has 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 communiqué was signed by several prominent baales, including Chief Durodola Fatai, Kola Jimoh, and Ogunjimi Olusoji, among others.