The Olubadan Advisory Council has reinstated Chief Sulaiman Olawale Oladoja as the Mogaji of Akinsola Family Compound, Labiran, Ibadan, after nearly seven months of suspension.
The reinstatement was confirmed in an official statement from the Olubadan Palace on Monday. It followed a series of appeals by Oladoja and a formal communication from the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters dated August 26, 2024.
According to a letter signed by the Clerk to the Olubadan Advisory Council, Mr. A. Kolawole Balogun, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Dr. Owolabi Olakulehin, Olubadan of Ibadanland, approved the reinstatement with immediate effect.
“After series of appeals, the Olubadan of Ibadanland considered your plea… and has graciously approved your reinstatement as Mogaji Akinsola Family Compound, Labiran Area, Ibadan,” the letter read in part.
The letter also urged Chief Oladoja to leverage the reinstatement to contribute positively to the progress of Ibadanland.
Chief Oladoja was removed on March 12, 2024, over comments the Council described as disrespectful to the Olubadan throne and the traditional institution. His statements at the time were characterized as divisive and unbecoming of a traditional figure.
Reacting to the development, Chief Oladoja expressed gratitude to God and all those who supported him through the ordeal.
“I give thanks to Almighty Allah for showing me mercy. Special thanks to His Imperial Majesty, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, and to Oba Senator Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja, former Governor of Oyo State, as well as other revered traditional leaders,” he said.
He also extended appreciation to Oba Hamidu Ajibade, Oba Edy Oyewole Foko, Oba Sarafadeen Ali, High Chief Eleruwere, Batista Prince Sunmbo Olakuleyin, Prince Folaseke Olakuleyin, Kunle Owolabi, Baale Isiaka Akinpelu (Baale Jagun), and members of the Akinsola family.
“It’s me—your son, your brother, your friend,” he concluded, signing off as Sulaiman Olawale Oladoja, Mogaji Akinsola Opopo Labiran, Ibadan.
The statement from the Olubadan Palace was electronically signed by Chief Solomon Olugbemiga Ayoade, Chief Press Secretary to the Olubadan of Ibadanland.