Oba Sikiru Adetona, the Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebu Land, has advised the kingmakers of the land against choosing or acceding to the influence of persons he described as “moneybags” as his successor.
Oba Adetona stated this during this year’s Ojude-Oba, an annual festival of the Ijebu people, held at Oba Adetona Pavilion in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.
According to the 85-year-old monarch, he cannot tell whether he would be alive next year to witness another Ojude-Oba, noting that it was imperative for him to offer a piece of advice to the kingmakers while he is still in their midst.
The Ijebu ruler, who spoke in Yoruba, warned against the politicisation of the throne, adding that the kingmakers must not select a successor who will halt the development of the ethnic group’s people and land.
He urged the kingmakers to seek God’s direction before going ahead to make their decision.
Oba Adetona said: “When I eventually go, please, go for a capable successor.
“Reject any candidate that will put Ijebu Land into retrogression.
“Do not politicise the process of selecting my successor.
“Do not go for people that will draw Ijebu backwards.
“If the next ruling house does not present a viable candidate, please, reject him, and go for the next ruling house with capable candidate.
“Do not go for moneybags that will destroy the achievements Ijebu Land has recorded so far.
“Call on God for direction when picking my successor. Ask God to guide you.”
“My prayer is that Ijebuland will continue to grow from strength to strength.”
Dapo Abiodun, Governor of Ogun State, who was present at the event, prayed to God to allow the monarch witness and celebrate another festival.
Oba Adetona was coronated as the Awujale on April 2, 1960, and has sat on the throne for 59 years.
You Must logged in to add comments. Login
