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Fijabi Royal Family of Oritamerin Opposes Appointment of New Otun Baale in Okoro-Oketunu
The Fijabi Royal Family of Oritamerin, Ibadan, has formally expressed strong opposition to the proposed installation of Mr. Saheed Raifu Adelani Olaigbe as the Otun Baale of Okoro-Oketunu. Addressed to His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, the family categorically rejected the scheduled ceremony set for January 31, 2026, labeling it as unlawful, unconstitutional, and lacking traditional legitimacy.
Historical Ownership and Traditional Authority of Okoro-Oketunu
In a comprehensive petition made public to the press, the Fijabi Royal Family emphasized that Okoro-Oketunu has historically belonged to and remains under the custodianship of their lineage. They asserted that any chieftaincy appointment conducted without their explicit approval is invalid and cannot be recognized under customary law.
The family traced their ancestral roots to Babalola, the founding patriarch of the Fijabi Royal Family and father of Fijabi Atilolari, who served as Baale of Ibadan from 1893 to 1895. This historical claim is corroborated by the esteemed historian Reverend Samuel Johnson in his seminal work, History of the Yorubas.
Babalola’s migration from Ogbomoso alongside fellow hunters such as Alade, Layaju, Fadairo, Ogunlola, Ogala, Jagun, and Apete led to the conquest and settlement of extensive farmlands, including Okoro-Oketunu, Elekuru, Oyalu, Aleru, and Onibonla. Following Babalola’s demise, his son Fijabi Atilolari ascended from Mogaji to Baale of Ibadan, while his brother Olojede attained the title of Aareago of Ibadanland.
Royal Lineages and Legacy
After Olojede’s passing, the family branched into four recognized ruling houses: Oyewusi (also known as Oyelakin), Adisa, Alao, and Ajagbe (Emiola). Notably, Oyewusi Fijabi, son of Fijabi Atilolari, became Olubadan of Ibadan from 1948 to 1952, and Chief Ladimeji Adisa Fijabi held the position of Otun Olubadan until his death in 2000. These documented successions affirm the unbroken royal heritage of the Fijabi family.
The family also cautioned against individuals masquerading as members of the royal house, describing them as “influence peddlers and opportunists.” They stressed that only those who can verifiably trace their lineage to the established ruling houses are entitled to royal status.
Clarification on the Current Baaleship of Okoro-Oketunu
The present Baale, Alhaji Raimi Rufai, was installed in 1989 with the endorsement of senior Fijabi family members. His appointment was not as a royal heir but as a caretaker, recognizing his family’s longstanding service to the royal household. This decision followed thorough consultations with key elders, including Alhaji Olayiwola Okunoye Fijabi.
This precedent underscores the principle that no legitimate installation in Okoro-Oketunu can occur without the nomination and consent of the Fijabi Royal Family or their recognized successors.
Concerns Over Unauthorized Installation Plans
The family expressed alarm that certain individuals, whom they described as usurpers lacking royal blood, are attempting to install Mr. Olaigbe as Otun Baale without any consultation or approval from the Fijabi lineage. They emphasized that none of the principal family members or their heirs have been involved in the process leading to the planned installation.
“Our stance is clear and unwavering: any installation conducted on January 31, 2026, at Okoro-Oketunu without our consent is null, void, and unacceptable,” the family declared.
Actions Taken and Call for Community Support
To prevent any potential disruption of peace, the Fijabi Royal Family has sent formal letters to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, other key traditional authorities, and relevant security agencies. They urged the people of Oyo State, especially Ibadan indigenes, to acknowledge their position and support the preservation of Ibadan’s customs and heritage.
The family reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding the traditions of Ibadanland and warned against allowing opportunists to undermine these cultural values.
