Kehinde Fajobi
Prince Ayobami Ladigbolu, a contender for the Alaafin of Oyo throne, has shared his reflections on the intense competition for the crown.
In a statement published on Facebook on Tuesday, he congratulated the newly crowned Alaafin, Oba Abimbola Owoade, calling his emergence “divinely ordained.”
Ladigbolu expressed disappointment over the defection of some of his initial supporters, who switched allegiance due to financial challenges.
“I learned the value of money in one’s life from the race for the crown of Alaafinate,” Ladigbolu said.
“Due to financial constraints, some of the people who first backed me later switched to another candidate.
“When I needed their help on the Alaafinate issue, those I had previously supported did the exact reverse for me. When it comes to the time to help me, those I have helped with their businesses ran away.
“I am not upset with them. I just took away some lessons for the future.”
Ladigbolu expressed gratitude to the Agbonhin Sanda Oridota family and the Ladigbolu section of the Agunloye royal family for nominating and supporting him.
He then congratulated Oba Owoade, stating, “He was chosen by God almighty. Ọba Akeem Abimbola Owoade has been destined to take the throne. I am happy for him. The entire Ladigbolu family felicitate with the new king. Congratulations. Kaabiesi.”
He also thanked his family, including his siblings, wife, and children, for their support throughout the journey.
Reflecting on his relationship with other contestants, Ladigbolu praised Prince Kolade Tunde Sanni Oladigbolu and Prince Muideen Adekunle Oladigbolu, whom he described as “blood brothers.”
Ladigbolu urged the people of Oyo to unite behind the new Alaafin.
“I urge the natives of Oyo town to support the new king. Contests for kingship are not without few controversies. We should manage the controversy and support the new king to build a viable Ọ̀yo and Yorùbá land of our dream,” he concluded.