By Peace Udugba -The daily torch media
Legal luminary, Niyi Akintola (SAN), has identified ignorance and lack of knowledge as major challenges confronting Nigeria, stressing that many public controversies stem from poor understanding of law, culture, and traditional institutions.
Akintola made this known while speaking on Sabenko, a programme on Eagle 102.5 FM in Ilese-Ijebu, Ogun State. He noted that ignorance continues to shape national discourse, particularly in matters relating to law and culture.
According to him, societal disputes often arise from misinformation and incomplete understanding of legal principles. He emphasised that law does not oppose culture but rather strengthens it, adding that effective laws must align with the cultural realities of the people.
“Law does not disturb culture; it strengthens it,” he said, warning that laws disconnected from societal values are difficult to enforce. He also criticised the tendency to uphold harmful cultural practices while neglecting positive traditions.
Ibadan Chieftaincy Structure and Historical Context
Addressing misconceptions about traditional institutions in Ibadan, Akintola explained that many critics lack knowledge of its historical and structural foundations.
He noted that prior to Nigeria’s independence, much of what is now Osun State—excluding Ilesa and Ile-Ife—was under the Ibadan District Council. He added that in 1955, Obafemi Awolowo created administrative divisions including Osun, Remo, and Egbado, many of which were historically linked to Ibadan traditional authority.
Akintola also referenced past legal disputes over chieftaincy legitimacy, including cases involving figures such as Laoye of Ede, noting that historical migrations and claims to titles contributed to complexities within the system.
He explained that the Ibadan chieftaincy structure is highly organised, comprising the Olubadan, the Iyalode, and 11 high chiefs operating under the Mogaji system. Membership of the Olubadan-in-Council, he added, confers public office status, with appointees receiving government remuneration.
Reforms and Government Role
Akintola traced recent reforms in the chieftaincy system to sustained advocacy by Ibadan elites, which culminated in legislative amendments signed into law by former Oyo State Governor, Abiola Ajimobi.
He noted that the current governor, Seyi Makinde, has continued to implement the law, particularly provisions guiding appointments into the Olubadan-in-Council.
Citing Section 20 of the Oyo State Chieftaincy Law, Akintola explained that the Olubadan recommends candidates to the governor, who then performs the formal crowning. He dismissed claims that recent appointments were unilateral decisions by the state government, insisting due process was followed.
Public Misconceptions and Ceremony Absence
On the absence of newly appointed chiefs at certain ceremonies, Akintola described public reactions as misguided, likening the process to civil service promotions, which do not require physical presentation at every stage.
He attributed widespread speculation to misinformation and lack of proper understanding of procedural norms.
Politics and Traditional Titles
Akintola stated that only the courts can determine whether traditional rulers can hold political office, noting that precedents exist where individuals resigned from professional roles before ascending thrones.
Structure and Authority in Ibadan
He further explained that Ibadan comprises 33 towns, with high chiefs playing key administrative and traditional roles across these areas. The Olubadan, he said, remains the paramount ruler within a structured and hierarchical system.
Drawing a comparison, Akintola likened the Ibadan traditional framework to the British monarchy, where the king presides over subordinate titles, emphasising the order and functionality of the system.
He concluded by dismissing reports of any rift between the Oyo State Government and the Olubadan, describing such claims as unfounded and driven by misinformation.
