The Council of Baales in Orile-Imo, Ogun State, has rejected the installation of Chief Reuben Oluwanbe Sogaolu as the Olu of Orile-Imo.

The Council claims that the process was flawed and lacked community involvement.

The decision was announced in a communique issued after a meeting on Monday, August 5, 2024.

The statement, signed by over 20 Baales including Chief Durodola Fatai, Kola Jimoh, and Ogunjimi Olusoji, reflects strong disapproval from key stakeholders in the community.

The Council expressed surprise and disappointment that Sogaolu’s appointment was made by Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, the Alake and Paramount ruler of Egbaland, without consulting the Imo Traditional Council. The Council believes that the state governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, may have been misinformed about the selection process.

The communique stated, “The governor, known for his respect for the laws of our land, cannot knowingly support a blatant disregard for the rule of law.” It emphasized the community’s trust in the governor’s adherence to legal and traditional norms.

The Baales declared that Sogaolu’s appointment was unacceptable, stating, “The Alake lacks the authority to unilaterally appoint the Olu of Orile-Imo, as his role is limited to acting on recommendations from the Imo Traditional Council.”

The communique also criticized Sogaolu’s ties to the community, noting that he does not meet the criteria for the position. “An Oba should be someone who is well known, resides in the town, and has actively contributed to its development,” the statement said.

The Council warned that the installation of Sogaolu could cause unrest in the peaceful Orile-Imo community. “As law-abiding citizens, we will not take law into our own hands but will explore all legitimate avenues to seek justice and ensure that the people’s will prevails,” the Baales added.

In response, the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Gbadebo, through Amona Tajudeen Oladeinde, denied the allegations. He said, “The appointment and subsequent installation of the monarch followed due process.”

He explained that Sogaolu was properly nominated by the Imo people and ratified by the Egba Traditional Council before being approved by the Ogun State government. “Due process was observed at every stage to fill the vacant stool of Olu Orile-Imo,” Oladeinde said.

Oladeinde also stated, “It is wrong for anyone or group of people to say the traditional ruler was imposed on them.” Efforts are underway to bring all parties together for the community’s progress.