The Oke-Aremo Development Forum in Ibadan North Local Government Area of Oyo State has urged Senator Sharafadeen Alli to focus on his new traditional responsibilities following his elevation to the position of Ekerin Balogun of Ibadanland, rather than pursuing his 2027 governorship ambition.
In a statement jointly signed by the forum’s President, Alimi Alao, and Secretary, Adebayo Kazeem, the group congratulated Alli on his promotion, describing it as a significant milestone that should place him above partisan politics and position him as a custodian of Ibadanland’s cultural heritage.
The forum noted that the passing of the Osi Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Isioye-Dada, automatically paved the way for promotions along the Balogun line of the Olubadan traditional succession system, with Alli moving from Ekaarun Balogun to Ekerin Balogun, subject to the approval of the Olubadan of Ibadanland.
According to the forum, the Ekerin Balogun title carries immense cultural, historical and leadership responsibilities, which it said outweigh the attraction of elective political office.
“While the occupant of Agodi Government House serves for a limited constitutional tenure, the holder of a revered traditional title occupies a permanent place in the history, culture and leadership structure of Ibadanland,” the statement said.
The group maintained that Alli’s new position commands respect across political, religious and social divides, urging him to preserve the dignity of the traditional institution by distancing himself from partisan politics.
It also stated that Alli’s family has a longstanding connection with the traditional institution of Ibadanland and encouraged him to uphold that legacy by dedicating himself to the service of the people and the preservation of the city’s cultural heritage.
The forum described his elevation as a transition from active politics to a broader traditional responsibility, adding that members of the Olubadan traditional hierarchy are expected to serve as symbols of unity, peace and continuity.
The forum also condoled with the family of the late Osi Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Isioye-Dada, praying for the peaceful repose of the deceased and strength for his family and the people of Ibadanland.
It reaffirmed its commitment to the development of Oke-Aremo and Ibadanland and wished Alli wisdom, strength and divine guidance as he assumes his expanded traditional responsibilities.
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