Alaafin Stool: Governor Seyi Makinde’s executive rascality will backfire – Fabiyi
The controversy surrounding the Alaafin stool has deepened, with Oladimeji Fabiyi, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abeokuta, criticising Governor Seyi Makinde’s recent approval of a new Alaafin-elect. Fabiyi described the governor’s actions as “executive rascality” that will ultimately lead to “monumental disgrace.”
In a statement personally signed by Fabiyi, he expressed dismay at the governor’s decision to announce a new Alaafin-elect despite an ongoing court case challenging the selection process.
“The Alaafin stool, a symbol of Yoruba heritage and strength for over a century, has never been subjected to such ridicule. Any attempt to diminish its sanctity, regardless of who is behind it, will inevitably backfire,” he said.
Fabiyi argued that Governor Makinde’s action disregards the judiciary and undermines the traditional institution. “Why can’t the governor wait for the court to decide? If he believes in his position, why not use the resources at his disposal to secure a favourable judgment? This lawlessness and haste to enthrone a candidate reeks of weakness and desperation,” he stated.
He added that such behaviour from leaders shows a troubling tendency towards authoritarianism. “Governors always act as though they are untouchable while in office. We recently saw similar chaos in Adamawa and Kano, where traditional institutions were destabilised due to political interference.”
READ ALSO: Respect yourself to avoid embarrassment — MURIC tells Governor Makinde
Fabiyi urged the people of Oyo to remain calm and law-abiding, emphasising that the governor might exploit unrest to clamp down on dissent. “The people must not take the law into their own hands, no matter how frustrating the governor’s actions are. Truth will eventually prevail,” he advised.
He also recalled that two years ago, the Oyo Mesi, led by the Bashorun of Oyo, completed a credible process to select Prince Lukman Gbadegesin as the Alaafin-elect, a process initially supported by the state government. However, Fabiyi alleged that Governor Makinde later interfered, citing political bias due to Prince Gbadegesin’s perceived association with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
“The governor’s unfounded allegations and meddling are an affront to the traditional institution. History shows that any governor who negatively interferes in chieftaincy matters ends up disgraced,” Fabiyi warned.
He concluded by calling on Yoruba leaders and royal fathers worldwide to defend their cultural heritage against what he termed a “brazen desecration” by the governor. “The Alaafin stool is not just a throne; it represents our collective identity as Yorubas. We must stand firm to protect it,” Fabiyi stated.
Follow the Neptune Prime channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va74ZvU2v1IqKByXoX3d
Do you have breaking news, interview request, opinion, suggestion, or want your event covered? Email us at neptuneprime2233@gmail.com
