Alaafin warns against illegal installation of market leader in Oyo

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has warned against what he described as an illegal installation of a market leader in Oyo State, declaring that such actions were unauthorised and of no legal effect.

In a statement issued on Saturday by his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, the monarch cautioned one Isunmaila Kolawole Salam, also known as Olaiya, to stop parading 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.

It added that the palace would not recognise any appointment made outside established 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 further directed the individual concerned to desist from 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 also warned members of the public against dealing 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 said the monarch would not tolerate any action seen as undermining traditional authority or established processes, stressing that steps would be taken to preserve peace and order within the kingdom.