In a shocking turn of events following the announcement of the planning and implementation committee to oversee the coronation ceremony of the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, market leaders in Ibadan have voiced their dissatisfaction over their exclusion and lack of represention.
The alleged omission of some stakeholders has sparked concerns among members of the Ibadan Mogajis and prominent market leaders prompting calls for a thorough review of the committee’s composition.
A statement by Chief Mrs. Iswat Oyinlola Ameringun, the Chairperson of Ibadan Market Leaders Council made available to westernmirror.com.ng by Zakariyah Kamil Ariyo, General Secretary Ibadan Joint Traders Association on Tuesday July 2, expressed the displeasure of the market leaders.
According to the Market leaders body, the Olubadan’s coronation remains a significant event steeped in tradition and cultural history, and traditionally involved a diverse representation of stakeholders from various groups in Ibadanland.
The Ibadan market leaders council disclosed that the lack of representation of market leaders from Ibadanland which is directly under the Iyalode of Ibadan, a member of the Olubadan in-council, from the committee was unacceptable.
The Association appealed to Governor Seyi Makinde to reconsider review of the coronation committee to provide room for its representation being a key stakeholder in the affairs of the Olubadan in-council.
Chief (Mrs.) Ameringun emphasized the crucial role that markets play in the economic lifeblood of Ibadan and stressed the need for their voices to be heard in matters of cultural significance such as the coronation of the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland.
“We are not only stakeholders but also custodians of the daily livelihoods of hundred of thousands within Ibadan. Our exclusion from such an important committee is a disservice to our representation that the coronation should embody.
“We appeal to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Oyo state, Engr. Seyi Makinde, to kindly use his good office to effect a review of the committee’s composition to reflect our association’s inclusion to enable us play our role in the coronation of our new king.” The statement stated.