Iyaloja-General Controversy: Ataoja Explains Viral Palace Video

The Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji Olanipekun (Larooye II), has clarified that his recent remarks concerning the Iyaloja-General of Osun State were misinterpreted, insisting that he had no intention of challenging the authority of Governor Ademola Adeleke or contradicting the state government.

The monarch’s clarification followed the state government’s reaction to a viral video recorded at his palace, which was interpreted by some observers as reaffirming Alhaja Awawu Asindemade as the Iyaloja-General of Osun State.

However, Oba Olanipekun explained that his comments had been taken out of context, stressing that they were not intended to undermine the governor’s authority or oppose the government’s position on the matter.

According to the traditional ruler, the circumstances surrounding the video were different from the interpretation that subsequently gained public attention.

The Ataoja explained that the Iyaloja-General of Nigeria, Chief (Mrs) Folashade Tinubu, had contacted him ahead of her proposed visit to Osun State in connection with activities surrounding President Bola Tinubu’s second-term political campaign and requested that he host her during the visit.

He further explained that his remarks were intended to clarify the arrangements surrounding the proposed visit and prevent misunderstanding between two prominent market leaders in Osogbo.

The monarch identified the two individuals as Mrs Omolara Ilesanmi, the Iyaloja of Idi-Osun, who claims to have been appointed as the new Iyaloja-General of Osun State, and Alhaja Awawu Asindemade, the Iyaloja of Osogbo, who previously held the position during the administration of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Oba Olanipekun maintained that his intervention was aimed at avoiding a possible misunderstanding between the two women ahead of Chief Folashade Tinubu’s proposed visit, rather than taking a position against the state government.

The controversy has generated public debate following the government’s reaffirmation of its recognition of Mrs Oyebode as the Iyaloja-General of Osun State.

While the government has maintained its position on the recognised market leadership, the Ataoja’s clarification seeks to dispel suggestions that he deliberately acted in defiance of Governor Adeleke or the state government.

The monarch also called for a proper understanding of his remarks, emphasising the need to maintain peace, prevent unnecessary disputes and preserve a cordial relationship between traditional institutions and the state government.