ABUJA, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)-The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has cautioned against what he described as the unlawful installation of a market leader in Oyo State, declaring that such actions lack authorisation and have no legal standing.
In a statement released on Saturday by his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, the monarch warned one Isunmaila Kolawole Salam, also known as Olaiya, to stop presenting himself as the Babaloja of Oyo.
“The attention of the ancient Palace of Oyo has been drawn to an illegal self-proclamation, installation, and parading of one Isunmaila kolawole Salam, a k a Olaiya as the Babaloja of Oyo, without due process and authorization,” the statement read.
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The palace stressed that it would not recognise any appointment made outside the approved procedures.
“It should be noted that any chieftaincy title, or their equivalents, conferred without the approval of His Imperial Majesty and Paramount Ruler of Oyo Kingdom, Oba Owoade is illegal, null, and void,” it added.
The palace also directed the individual to immediately stop presenting himself as a market leader.
“Isunmaila Kolawole Salami, a k a Olaiya is hereby advised to stop parading himself with unapproved market forthwith,” it said.
It further warned the public against engaging with him in any official capacity.
“The general public is also advised not to transact, engage, or associate with the holder of illegitimate market title, as anyone who deals with him does so at his or her own risk,” it added.
The statement noted that the monarch would not condone any action that undermines traditional authority or due process, emphasising that necessary steps would be taken to maintain peace and order in the kingdom.