The Oke-Aremo Development Forum has urged the lawmaker representing Oyo South Senatorial District, Sharafadeen Alli, to place his newly elevated traditional responsibilities above any political ambition ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
The forum made the call while congratulating Alli on his elevation to the prestigious position of Ekeerin Balogun of Ibadanland following the demise of the Osi Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Olubunmi Isioye Dada.
In a statement jointly signed by its President, Alimi Jelili Alao, and Secretary, Adebayo Kazeem, the forum described Alli’s ascension within the Olubadan traditional hierarchy as a significant milestone that should naturally place him above partisan politics and position him as a custodian of Ibadanland’s cultural values and traditions.
The group also expressed condolences to the family of the late Oba Dada, praying for the repose of his soul and for divine comfort for his family, associates and the people of Ibadanland.
According to the forum, the transition occasioned by the death of Oba Dada has elevated Alli to one of the most revered positions within the traditional leadership structure of Ibadanland, a role that comes with far-reaching cultural, historical and leadership responsibilities.
The forum maintained that the prestige and influence attached to the Ekeerin Balogun stool surpass any political office, including that of the governor of Oyo State, arguing that while occupants of Agodi Government House are bound by constitutional tenure limits, holders of revered traditional titles occupy a permanent place in the history and leadership of their people.
“Your royal stool is bigger than Agodi Government House,” the statement declared.
It added that Alli now occupies a position that commands respect across political, religious and social divides, stressing that a deliberate withdrawal from partisan politics would preserve the dignity of his office and strengthen his legacy within Ibadanland.
“By embracing his traditional responsibilities and distancing himself from partisan politics, he will preserve the sanctity of his office, strengthen the legacy of his family and secure a more enduring place in the annals of Ibadan history,” the forum stated.
The group further noted that Alli hails from a respected family with deep roots in Ibadan’s traditional institution and should therefore focus on preserving that heritage rather than pursuing political contests that could diminish the stature of his newly acquired office.
It argued that his elevation has fundamentally altered the nature of his public responsibilities.
“With his elevation to the prestigious position of Ekeerin Balogun, the responsibility before him is now more traditional than political.
“He is no longer just a politician but a monarch and custodian of the rich cultural heritage of Ibadanland,” the statement read.
The forum emphasised that members of the Olubadan-In-Council are expected to rise above partisan interests and serve as symbols of unity, peace and cultural continuity within society.
It also referenced the Gazette of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs, noting that individuals elevated within the Olubadan traditional hierarchy are recognised as traditional rulers with important obligations to their communities.
According to the group, combining active partisan politics with the demands of a royal stool could create avoidable distractions and conflicts of interest, adding that Ibadanland would benefit more from Alli’s wealth of experience and influence if devoted entirely to traditional service.
The forum therefore appealed to the senator to embrace his new responsibilities wholeheartedly, place himself above partisan considerations and contribute to strengthening the unity, development and cultural heritage of Ibadanland for future generations.
It reaffirmed its commitment to the development of Oke-Aremo and Ibadanland, while praying for wisdom, strength and divine guidance for Oba Alli as he assumes greater responsibilities within the revered Olubadan traditional institution.