"Engage in constructive dialogue rather than resorting to media theatrics", Osun Assembly tells Aragbiji, Oba Olabomi

The Osun State House of Assembly, has issued a stern warning to Oba Rasheed Olabomi, the Aragbiji of Iragbiji, following his recent comments during a press conference where he appeared to issue a warning to the state governor while subtly inciting discord among the populace.

The Speaker of the assembly, Rt. Hon. Adewale Egbedun, in a statement issued on behalf of members, believed it is absurd for someone of Oba Olabomi’s stature to publicly disparage a leader.

He argued that, given his age and position, he should exercise restraint and uphold the dignity associated with his throne.

The speaker emphasised that claiming to “warn” the governor is a profound affront that undermined the respect expected from traditional leaders.

He noted that if Oba Olabomi has disagreements with the recent white paper or decisions of the state executive council, he should engage in constructive dialogue rather than resorting to media theatrics that reflect poorly on his leadership.

Furthermore, the speaker highlighted the importance of the recent government decision to restore rights to a marginalized Iragbiji ruling house, questioning why this development troubles the Oba, as all members of that ruling house are also his subjects.

Meanwhile, members of the assembly are calling for Oba Olabomi to act with prudence, warning that his attempts to vilify the governor could backfire and damage his reputation.

They reminded him that he is not above the law and must recognize his position as a subject of the governor.

The assembly, then, commended the council’s decision as a demonstration of the government’s commitment to justice, ensuring that no individual or group is oppressed as they continue to advocate dignity and respect among all leaders in the community.

The statement on the caption, “Embrace Dignity and Conduct Yourself with Regal Grace,” read in full: “It is utterly absurd to witness someone who ought to embody the highest standards of ethics and integrity, disparaging a leader. We recently viewed the press conference featuring the Aragbiji of Iragbiji, Oba Rasheed Olabomi, in which he purportedly issued a warning to our esteemed governor while subtly inciting discord among the populace.

“Given the stature and age of the Aragbiji, one would expect him to exercise restraint and decorum, upholding the dignity of the throne he occupies. Kabiesi Olabomi must recognize that to claim he is “warning” a state governor is, at the very least, a profound affront.

“Should Baba Olabomi find himself in disagreement with the recent white paper or the decisions of the state executive council, wisdom should dictate that he refrained from resorting to media theatrics that reveal his lack of civility.

“When a government establishes a judicial panel to address matters of chieftaincy declarations and subsequent administrations grapple with the recommendations, what transgression has occurred in the latest review?

“The decision fosters justice for an Iragbiji ruling house, Logua family, that has long been marginalized, ensuring their rightful place is restored. What, then, troubles Oba Olabomi? Are the members of the Logua ruling house not his subjects as well?

“It is both laughable and lamentable that Oba Olabomi fails to distinguish between the actions of the executive cabinet and the governor’s decisions. Let it be made clear: Iragbiji is not the sole domain of Oba Rasheed Olabomi, and his position does not bestow upon him superior rights over any other citizen.

“Osun Assembly urges the distinguished elders of our community to counsel Oba Olabomi to act with prudence. His attempts to vilify and incite the public against the governor in response to the executive council’s decision may ultimately backfire, bringing him into disrepute.

“He is not above the law and must remember that he remains a subject of the governor. Should he allow his pride to cloud his judgment, he shall face the consequence.

“Osun State House of Assembly also commend the council’s decision, which stands as a testament to this government’s commitment to justice and its refusal to allow any individual or group to be oppressed.”