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Akinwande Soji-Ojo
The nine royal families in Oyo which have been excluded from producing the Alaafin since 1859, popularly known as Atiba 9, have criticised the Basorun of Oyo, High Chief Yusuf Akinade, over his claim that the selection process for the emergence of a new Alaafin has been concluded.
Recall that Akinade had in a recent interview said Oyomesi has concluded the selection process and sent the name of the selected prince to Oyo State Governor, Engr Seyi Makinde, for approval. He added that they were waiting for a formal announcement from the state government.
But the nine families in a statement signed on their behalf by Prince Sina Afolabi, which was made available to newsmen on Monday, said Basorun’s claim that a king has been chosen since 2022 is completely untrue, baseless and unfounded.
The royal families acknowledged that there were some improper arrangements made in the past, which have since been recognised and declined by the government.
“These arrangements did not represent a due process that reflects the genuine selection of a new Alaafin. We fully support the government’s decision on this matter.
“We firmly believe that any process that excludes the nine royal families cannot be considered valid. It is essential that justice, fairness, and equity are upheld in the selection processes,” the statement read.
They urged Governor Seyi Makinde to implement the 1976 Adekunle Ladeinde reports to ensure justice, fairness and equity.
“By allowing the nine ruling houses, including Olawoyin to participate in the selection processes, it is the duty of the government to promote peace and harmony within the community. We sincerely hope that our plea for justice and fairness will be heard and acted upon,” it added.
