Concerned residents and stakeholders of Ido town in Ido Local Government Area of Oyo State have raised fresh concerns over the longstanding dispute over the Onido of Ido stool, nearly 19 years after the crisis began.
The group, led by Sarafadeen Adeyeye, addressed journalists on Tuesday in Ibadan, the state capital, urging Governor Seyi Makinde and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, to intervene urgently.
Adeyeye explained that the town currently faces three individuals claiming the throne: Oba Benjamin Ademola Ishola Orobiyi II, Tajudeen Akinola, and Muritala Babalola, describing the situation as unhealthy for the community.
“The unresolved crisis has continued to generate tension, confusion, and division in the ancient town. We are appealing to Governor Makinde and the Olubadan of Olubadanland to look into this matter afresh and bring clarity,” he said.
According to Adeyeye, the dispute traces its roots to the installation of Oba Orobiyi II in 1997 and subsequent political and traditional disagreements around 2007, during heightened tensions between the State Government and the Ibadan traditional hierarchy.
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“What started as political and traditional disagreements at higher levels eventually spilled into Ido, and for 19 years, our community has been living with the consequences. The town has witnessed multiple appointments and counter-appointments, including those of Tajudeen Akinola and Muritala Babalola, which have deepened divisions,” he added.
The residents emphasized that their appeal is not targeted at any individual but seeks a neutral, transparent, and comprehensive review of the matter to restore peace in Ido.
They expressed optimism that a joint intervention by the State Government and the Olubadan-in-Council would resolve the dispute, restore confidence in traditional institutions, and end nearly two decades of uncertainty over the Onido of Ido stool.