The Obaladi-in-Council of Afon Land has issued a statement addressing recent developments concerning the creation and leadership of Obada-Afon, particularly the recent elevation of one of the three Baales claiming headship over the town.
In a statement made available to our correspondent and signed by Aro of Afon Land, High Chief Niyi Odeyale called on the Ogun State government, alongside the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice and the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, to suspend the installation of Jimoh Ajani Fagbohun as Olobada of Obada until the resolution of Suit No: AB/819/2023 is determined by Honourable Justice O. Ogunfowora at the Ogun State High Court. This precaution is necessary to maintain public order and respect for established traditions.
“Obada was established as a market town on February 28, 1962, through legal frameworks initiated by Chief Joel Ogungbe, then councillor for Afon Ward in the Egbado-Ketu District Council, under the reign of Oba Jinadu Ajao Adetona, Orimadegun II, the Obaladi of Afon. This establishment was confirmed through a letter titled “Permission to Establish a Market” (Reference No. 245/179), affirming the legal foundations and traditional authority governing Obada.
“Obaladi in Council commends the Ogun State government’s decision to upgrade the Baale of Obada to an Oba, led by Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun, it emphasizes that the true sovereign authority over Obada resides with the Obaladi of Afon. Any other claims to this authority lack historical basis and should be approached with caution.
“The Council highlights that the ongoing legal case regarding the ownership of Obada-Afon is still pending. The installation of an Oba at this time could disrupt the judicial process and undermine the rule of law.
“This issue transcends mere titles; it profoundly impacts the communal identity and historical legacy of both Afon and Obada. The Council appeals for adherence to traditions and historical facts to prevent any disruption to peace and uphold the integrity of Afon land”‘ the statement reads
