Oba Olabomi Clears the Air on Aragbiji Chieftaincy Statement, Reaffirms Respect for Governor Adeleke.
In a bid to set the record straight, the Aragbiji of Iragbiji, Oba Abdulrosheed Olabomi, has clarified that his recent remarks regarding the Aragbiji Chieftaincy were never meant to slight Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke or the State Executive Council.
Speaking at a press conference on the 2nd of February, 2025, at his palace in Iragbiji, the revered monarch expressed concern over the widespread misinterpretation of his words, emphasizing that his comments had been misconstrued.
“On Friday, January 21, 2025, I addressed the press on the decision of the State Executive Council regarding the Aragbiji Chieftaincy. The address was greatly misconstrued, with many insinuating what I never said or meant,” he stated.
Reiterating his deep respect for Governor Adeleke and his administration, Oba Olabomi stressed that at no point did he intend to challenge or undermine the government’s authority.
“For the purpose of clarification, I would like to state categorically that I have very high regard for His Excellency, Governor Ademola Adeleke, and the State Executive Council. Hence, I could not have contemplated disrespecting the constituted authority,” he affirmed.
To further dispel any doubts, the monarch pointed to his cordial relationship with Governor Adeleke, citing multiple instances of personal interactions.
“On Tuesday, January 28, 2025, my Governor was in Iragbiji, and I accorded him the best of regards. Similarly, about two months ago, we met at Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos, and I saw him off to his Abuja-bound flight,” he recounted.
In a striking gesture of loyalty, Oba Olabomi revealed that he had personally acquired the governor’s official portrait and prominently displayed it within his palace, even before receiving an official copy.
“Following his swearing-in as Governor, I personally bought his official portrait, even though it was not officially sent to me. When you enter my palace, you will see Governor Ademola Adeleke’s bust placed conspicuously,” he disclosed.
Beyond his personal affiliations, the traditional ruler reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to peace and governance, noting that his seventeen-year reign had been marked by stability and cooperation.
“For the past seventeen years as the Aragbiji of Iragbiji, I have been committed to the pursuit and maintenance of peace in my domain and other parts of the state. I can therefore never incite the public against the Governor or the State Executive Council,” he assured.
While acknowledging the misunderstanding surrounding his initial statement, Oba Olabomi underscored that his address was purely a democratic expression of concern.
“I am aware that my media address on Friday was greatly misconstrued. However, it was an expression made in line with the spirit of democracy, which allows ventilation of views on issues affecting individuals and groups,” he explained.
In a final appeal, the monarch urged the State Government to reconsider its stance on the Aragbiji Chieftaincy, emphasizing the need for peace and stability.
“I would like to, again, passionately appeal to His Excellency, Governor Ademola Adeleke, and the State Executive Council to kindly reconsider their stand on the Aragbiji Chieftaincy,” he pleaded.
As tensions simmer, Oba Olabomi also called on the public and social media users to avoid inflammatory statements that could further escalate the situation, reinforcing his commitment to fostering dialogue and unity.