The Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakunlehin (Ige Olakunlehin 1) has described the Ibiira people in Ibadanland as very loyal to the cause of Ibadanland.
His Imperial Majesty made the statement while receiving the Baale of Ibira Community in Ibadan, Chief Lamidi Aliu Balogun and his entourage who paid him a courtesy visit at the new Olubadan palace, Oke Aremo, Ibadan.
Speaking through the Aremo, Prince Olasunmbo Owolabi Olakulehin, the monarch said, “Ibadan has a long history of over one hundred years of mutual relationship with Ibira people. The Ibiras are no longer visitors but recognized residents of Ibadanland”
‘We have therefore accepted them as one of us given the long standing peaceful co -existence and look forward to the continuity of the mutually beneficial relationship”
In his address, the Baale of Ibira Community in Ibadan, Chief Lamidi Aliu Balogun disclosed that their visit to the Olubadan was a tradition they have maintained over the years.
In his words,”We acknowledge the importance of Ibadanland, rever the Olubadan and will continue to obey the laws, customs and traditions of the land”
“Ibira people have found socio – economic prosperity in Ibadan and will therefore continue to pray for peace in the land so that our people can continue to prosper.
Chief Lamidi Aliu Balogun described Ibadanland as the most peaceful city in the world and advocated for the creation of Ibadan State which according to him is long overdue.
He pledged the continued loyalty and cooperation of his people to Ibadanland and Oyo State as a whole.
Accompanying the Baale of Ibira Community on the visit were Chief Abdul Rahmon Jimoh Enesi (Asiwaju) Apata Ibira Community, Chief Salihu Usman _ Chairman, Chief Ibrahim Leramol Vice_ chairman, Chief Salihu Aminu from Ayepe, Iwo road, Abdul Rauf Bello_Auditor and Allhaja Sikirat Yisa _ Iyalode, among others.
