The Olubadan of Ibadanland has clarified that his traditional authority does not extend over the entire Yorubaland or Oyo State, stressing that his constitutional and customary jurisdiction is limited strictly to Ibadan and its people.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by political and community leaders, the monarch cautioned against the growing tendency to describe him as the “Olubadan of Yorubaland” or “Olubadan of Oyo State”, noting that such labels are historically inaccurate and misleading. He explained that the Olubadan throne is rooted in the unique traditional hierarchy of Ibadanland and was never designed to serve as an umbrella kingship for all Yoruba people or the whole of Oyo State.
The Olubadan emphasized that Yorubaland is home to many first‑class traditional rulers, each with its own history, territory, and cultural authority, and that attempting to subsume them under his title would be a disservice to established institutions. He added that Oyo State itself comprises several paramount stools, including those outside Ibadan, and that respect for boundaries and traditions is essential to harmony among royal fathers.
He urged journalists, politicians, social media users, and event organizers to use his correct style “Olubadan of Ibadanland” in official documents, programmes, and public communications. According to him, proper usage of titles helps preserve history, prevent inter‑palace friction, and guide younger generations on the true structure of Yoruba traditional leadership.
The monarch also used the occasion to call for unity among Yoruba traditional rulers, saying cooperation on culture, security, and youth development matters more than competition over prestige. He reiterated that while his influence and relationships may extend beyond Ibadan, his formal jurisdiction remains clearly defined within Ibadanland and should be recognised as such.
